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Bring on the callups; keep an eye on Hellickson

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:06:21 +0100

This is the time when all 30 teams try and take a glimpse into the crystal ball that is their September call-up list. For the contenders it's a chance to have their youngsters make an immediate impact, while the non-contenders simply are figuring out which players will be ready for next year and which ones won't.

The Yankees have such a deep roster already they don't need to expect much from their callups, but the Rays are a different story. Classic overachievers, this is when they need some of those players to step up and make an impact. One in particular, 2005 fourth-round pick Jeremy Hellickson, could be a difference-maker.

3-0 with a 1.35 ERA in four starts in his first stint, Hellickson will be moved into the bullpen for the remainder of the season. With some experience under his belt already, he could really be beneficial to the club down the stretch.

And of course a Chris Sale update. On this the first day rosters expand, Sale, already having earned his promotion, picked up his first major-league save in a critical comeback win for the White Sox in Cleveland. The more we see of this kid, the more impressive he is. He hasn't shown any signs of hesitation being a rookie in his first year of pro ball.

Who will be next from the 2010 class to make it? Sale seems to be a major exception to the rule, but based on his stellar performance thus far, maybe teams shouldn't hesitate to let their bonus babies make the quick jump to the big leagues.

University of Miami baseball coach Jim Morris discusses Reds' first-round pick Yasmani Grandal

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 18:16:57 +0100

University of Miami baseball coach Jim Morris recently spoke with DA about his former star catcher Yasmani Grandal. The switch-hitting backstop was drafted 12^th overall by the Cincinnati Reds in this year's MLB Draft.

DA: What was it like to coach a player as talented as Yasmani?

JM: When I first saw him play, I remember saying this guy's outstanding, and he'll probably never go to college because he's too good. Because he could really catch and throw, and when I saw him he really hit well that day being a switch-hitter. A prototype guy – a stocky, strong, switch-hitting catcher that can catch and throw, and that's exactly what they're looking for in the big leagues, and of course we are too. He's a guy that's very motivated and focused, that works hard everyday. He's very goal-oriented to play in the big leagues, and to get that done, whatever time he needed to spend, he was going to spend.

DA: What was that recruiting pitch like, knowing you had a guy who already had major-league skills, to get him to play for your program?

JM: I mean we try to recruit the best players, particularly from South Florida, and hope that they'll go to school. And he's one of those guys that did go to school versus sign pro, and we lost five of them last night that didn't go to school, so it works either way. But it was great to have him here. He worked hard, he really improved his value as a player. I think probably the biggest thing he improved on was his hitting while he was here. He's always been known as a really good catch and throw guy.

DA: So you kind of had an idea he would be a first-round talent from day one?

JM: I don't want to say that. If I was that smart, [the Reds] would have taken him in the first round and saved a lot of money. But I just thought he was a pretty special player when I saw him play in high school.

DA: What particular aspects of his hitting did he improve on?

JM: I think he improved both ways. He hit with power and average by the time he left, and you can look at his statistics and see that he made a lot of improvements while he was here.

DA: What was the experience like for you and him on draft day?

JM: We were right in the middle of the Texas A&M game [during in-state regionals]. We had a rain delay, and he'd actually found out before I did. He was out on the field so I went and saw him out on the field and congratulated him. It had to be a pretty emotional time for him to get drafted in the first round... It was actually right before the game started. It was supposed to be in the middle of the game, but we had a rain delay.

DA: And obviously his family was all there to celebrate with him?

JM: Of course. He's a great kid that came over from Cuba, and when you leave there... you leave everything. And you come here to start a new life, and you bring whatever you have on your back to come and start over. So it's a big process for him, his family, and everybody. It's exciting to watch someone that's worked so hard and is so goal-oriented and is really a good player and a good kid.

DA: What is the Reds organization getting in Yasmani Grandal?

JM: The real deal is that when you can catch and throw and hit and you're a catcher like him, then you've got a chance to move pretty quick [up the ranks of the system]. There's no question that when they took him in the first round that they expected him to move quick.

DA: I assume you will be keeping up with him and keeping in touch?

JM: Sure. It's great for both of us, for him and the program, to have such great success.

For more on the Reds, check out:

http://www.redreporter.com/

http://www.redsminorleagues.com

A look back: The 2005 NFL Draft

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:45:54 +0100

The 2005 NFL Draft didn't have the sizzle that others in recent memory have. The top 10 picks have only produced three Pro Bowlers, and none of those players own superstar status. In fact, it was the later rounds that produced some of the more notable names. There were even five undrafted players that went on to appear in Pro Bowls. Needless to say, 2005 wasn't exactly the year of the scout. A look back now at the first round and grades on how those players and teams have fared in the five seasons since.

Pick, Player, Team, Pos., School

1 Alex Smith, San Francisco 49ers, QB, Utah

Analysis: At least Smith is still with the 49ers, something that didn't seem likely just a year ago at this time. Despite his 16-24 career record, head coach Mike Singletary still believes Smith is the guy, even more so than another former number one disappointment, David Carr. Injuries and a lack of stability on the 49ers coaching staff have hampered Smith's development, which might help explain his 37-43 TD-INT ratio. Credit the organization for sticking by him. 2010 could be his last hurrah in the Bay Area for a San Francisco club that is on the rise in the NFC West. Grade: C-

2 Ronnie Brown, Miami Dolphins, RB, Auburn

Analysis: Brown has played 16 games in a season just once in five seasons, in 2008 when he earned his lone Pro Bowl berth. When healthy, Brown has given the Dolphins the hard-nosed, every-down runner that fits their offensive system – even with Ricky Williams in the mix. But having ended two of the last three campaigns on injured reserve make Williams' presence all the more necessary. Brown averages 4.4 yards per carry and has scored 31 touchdowns thus far. Pretty good, but a tad sub par for a second overall pick. Grade: B-

3 Braylon Edwards, Cleveland Browns, WR, Michigan

Analysis: The often enigmatic Edwards ultimately wore out his welcome in Cleveland and was shipped off the Jets early last season. He amassed 1,000 yards just once in four full seasons with the Browns, in 2007 when he reached his only Pro Bowl. He seems to have found his groove in New York, providing Mark Sanchez a go-to target for a team that reached the AFC Championship Game last year. But the Browns never got the big-time playmaker they sought when they selected Edwards, just another in a long line of misses by the Mistake by the Lake Browns. Grade: C

4 Cedric Benson, Chicago Bears, RB, Texas

Analysis: Much like Edwards, Benson eventually became more of a headache than a success for the team that drafted him. Unlike Edwards, however, it was Benson's off-the-field antics that rubbed the Bears organization the wrong way. He failed to outperform Thomas Jones, even when the team reached the Super Bowl after the 2006 season. 674 yards was his high-water mark in three years in the Windy City, but the Bengals saw something in Benson and indeed he resurrected his career there. Last season, Benson rushed for 1,251 yards in just 13 games, including a career-high 189 against his former team. Grade: C-

5 Carnell Williams, Tampa Bay, Buccaneers, RB, Auburn

Analysis: “Cadillac” has given the Bucs quite a ride when healthy, but that has been a novelty. He played just 10 games from 2007-08 after suffering a devastating knee injury. Since his stellar, 1,178-yard rookie campaign, Williams has struggled to produce consistently, in part because the Bucs have turned to several other backs to help contribute. His 3.8-yard per carry average won't wow anyone, but the team is holding out hope that a healthy Williams will return to his 2005 form. Grade: C

6 Adam Jones, Tennessee Titans, CB, West Virginia

Analysis: “Pacman” may be the most well-known name in the draft, but for all the wrong reasons. He lasted just two seasons in Tennessee before the NFL suspended him for the 2007 campaign. He earned a brief stint with the Cowboys before spending the 2009 season out of football. Numerous off-the-field issues, all of which have been well-documented, have completely tarnished Jones' image. He may get another shot with the Bengals, but that is of little consolation to the Titans at this point. As former GM Floyd Reese said, Jones may have been solid when he played, but he was “nothing but a disaster off the field.” This might help explain why Reese no longer has a job in Tennessee. Grade: F

7 Troy Williamson, Minnesota Vikings, WR, South Carolina

Analysis: The Vikings did hit big on a receiver they drafted from South Carolina this decade, only it wasn't Williamson. Sidney Rice did not enter the fold until 2007, two years after Williamson's sub par tenure in Minnesota began. Following the 07 campaign, Williamson found his career in Minnesota over and ended up in Jacksonville. He has 87 catches in five years, 79 of those coming in purple. He often dropped key passes and it soon became evident he wasn't going to pan out with the Vikings. Though the Jaguars are still holding out hope he can be a productive receiver, the Vikings have long realized they made an error in judgment on his talents. Grade: D

8 Antrel Rolle, Arizona Cardinals, CB, Miami (FL)

Analysis: Rolle took a year to get going, but he blossomed in 2006 and has been one of the league's steadier performers since. He has missed just one game in the last four years, and was converted to free safety in 2008 when the Cardinals went to their first Super Bowl. Showing a knack for the big play, the Giants signed Rolle to a 5-year, $37 million contract this offseason, leaving a hole in Arizona's secondary. For an organization that had struggled to hit big on draft picks, Rolle represents a number of key young players that helped transform the franchise. Grade: B+

9 Carlos Rogers, Washington Redskins, CB, Auburn

Analysis: Solid if not spectacular would best describe Rogers' five years in Washington. He has started 29 of 32 games played the last two years, but did not register an interception in 2009. Unfortunately the Redskins have been far from a top-tier team during his time there, so his lack of big plays haven't singled him out. Grade: C+

10 Mike Williams, Detroit Lions, WR, USC

Analysis: It's hard to believe Williams has a chance to make the Seattle Seahawks roster this season given how big of a bust he is. After failing to earn draft eligibility and missing the 2004 season at USC, Williams failed miserably in Detroit (sound familiar?). He hasn't caught a pass in the NFL since 2007, and has just 44 receptions in his career. He never seemed to be in proper shape, and eventually even the Lions had enough. Grade: F

11 DeMarcus Ware, Dallas Cowboys, LB, Troy

Analysis: Bill Parcells and the Cowboys brass actually took some heat for this pick when Shawne Merriman's career got off to a fast start. The Cowboys were perceived to have taken the wrong pass rusher, but things have gone just swimmingly for Ware and the Cowboys in recent years. Ware has recorded double-digit sacks every year since 2006, and led the league with a franchise-record 20 sacks in 2008. He has proved to not only be a great pass-rusher but also a game-changer. Grade: A

12 Shawne Merriman, San Diego Chargers, LB, Maryland

Analysis: Merriman was once the toast of the NFL after two remarkable seasons to start his career, but even in a 17-sack campaign in 2006 there was controversy when he was suspended four games for steroid use. After another steady season in 2007, Merriman lost all of 2008 with a serious knee injury and hardly regained his Pro Bowl form in 2009 with a paltry 4 sacks. There have been rumors the Bolts are trying to move him, as he has been unhappy in addition to struggling on the field. Still, given what he provided the team his first three seasons, this was one of general manager A.J. Smith's finest selections. Grade: A-

13 Jammal Brown, New Orleans Saints, OT, Oklahoma

Analysis: It's a shame that Brown missed the Saints' Super Bowl season with a sports hernia, because he had been a steady performer during his tenure with New Orleans. He started 58 games the previous four years, and helped protect Drew Brees' blind side admirably. Jermon Bushrod's performance last year helped force Brown out of the door, and now he is trying to revive his career in Washington. Still, a strong pick by the Saints. Grade: B+

14 Thomas Davis, Carolina Panthers, LB, Georgia

Analysis: Davis has seemingly gotten better each year, but has a long road to recovery after missing most of 2009 and now possibly all of 2010 with a torn ACL. A tackling machine with a knack for the big play, Davis has probably been the Panthers' most consistent defensive player since 2006, when he came a full-time starter. 11 sacks and eight fumbles in four-plus years shows that the Panthers made the right selection in Davis. Grade: B+

15 Derrick Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs, LB, Texas

Analysis: Johnson hit a low point last year when he lost his starting job, but has still given Chiefs fans reason for hope during his five-year tenure. He finished 2009 with a bang, returning two interceptions for touchdowns in helping the team to its first win in Denver since 2000. His career numbers are relatively strong (13 sacks, 6 interceptions, 11 forced fumbles), but he has been inconsistent at times. Still, a stabilizing force for a team that desperately needs one. Grade: B

16 Travis Johnson, Houston Texans, DT, Florida State

Analysis: Texans fans will likely remember Johnson most for taunting an unconscious Trent Green in a 2007 game, because his production was minimal at best during four years with the team. Two sacks and no forced fumbles with limited tackles will vouch for that, and Johnson now serves as a backup in San Diego. The Texans have long craved a dominant force on their interior defensive line, and Johnson failed to be that force. Grade: D-

17 David Pollack, Cincinnati Bengals, LB, Georgia

Analysis: A promising rookie campaign in 2005 had Bengals fans excited for Pollack's future, but his career was quickly derailed two games into the 2006 season with a severe neck injury. Pollack was never able to recover and left fans wondering what if. A bad grade here despite the fact that right off the bat it looked like the team made a big splash with Pollack. Grade: F

18 Erasmus James, Minnesota Vikings, DE, Wisconsin

Analysis: A big swing and a miss by Minnesota, as James started just 11 games in three extremely disappointing years in purple. He logged a paltry five sacks before he was let go, then failed to catch on in Washington and has not played in an NFL game since 2008. His failures forced the Vikings' hand in trading for All-Pro Jared Allen to give them the pass rusher they coveted, but it cost them two first-round draft picks. Grade: F

19 Alex Barron, St. Louis Rams, OT, Florida State

Analysis: Don't let the fact that Barron has started all but one game the last four years fool you. He was unable to fill Orlando Pace's shoes at left tackle, and in the last three years the Rams' offense has become one of the worst in the league as the franchise has won just six games during that span. Barron was dealt to Dallas this offseason for linebacker Bobby Carpenter. The feeling was that Barron was not only penalty prone but that the effort was not always there. A major underachiever thus far. Grade: D

20 Marcus Spears, Dallas Cowboys, DE, LSU

Analysis: Spears has played all 80 games in his five seasons in Big D, but the production has not always been there. He has recorded just 8 sacks and 3 forced fumbles despite starting 71 of those games, so suffice it to say Spears has been far outperformed by fellow first-rounder DeMarcus Ware. But considering Spears is still on the roster and still has a chance to become the player the Cowboys envisioned, they still get a moderate mark. Grade: C

21 Matt Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars, WR, Arkansas

Analysis: Jones is looking to rebuild his career and his life in Cincinnati (sounds repetitive doesn't it?) after spending 2009 out of football following an arrest and a release from the Jags, the team that drafted him. Envisioned as a hybrid receiver-QB type, Jones never really made an impact in either facet. He did catch 166 passes for 2,153 yards and 15 touchdowns from 2005-08, but he rarely came up with big games or clutch plays when needed. He also failed to crack the starting lineup until 2008, when he made 10 starts (15 career). His off-the-field troubles forced him out the door and left the Jaguars with a hole at the receiver position. Grade: D

22 Mark Clayton, Baltimore Ravens, WR, Oklahoma

Analysis: Clayton seems to epitomize the first round of the 2005 draft – at least among the players still with the clubs that selected them. Despite staying healthy and playing in all but four of the team's games since he was drafted, he hasn't emerged as the go-to guy the team thought he would be, and has now fallen to fourth on the team's depth chart. His career numbers are fair – 234 receptions for 3,116 yards and 14 touchdowns (2 rushing). But Joe Flacco and the Ravens needed reinforcements as Clayton has failed to be the playmaker they had hoped. Grade: C+

23 Fabian Washington, Oakland Raiders, CB, Nebraska

Analysis: It's the Raiders, so give Washington some credit for putting up three decent seasons there before ending up in Baltimore. Despite being an afterthought and overshadowed by All-Pro CB Nnamdi Asomugha, Washington tallied 5 interceptions in 2006-07, including 4 during the team's dismal 2-14 season of '06. He has logged 22 starts in two seasons since leaving the Black Hole, so he is steady if unspectacular. But the Raiders' moves rarely make sense, like letting go a steady performer amidst a slew of disappointments on the current roster. Grade: C

24 Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers, QB, California

Analysis: It took four years to finally grade this pick, but Rodgers has paid off in a big way and then some. When Brett Favre's annual drama queen act became unbearable, the Packers entrusted their faith and future in Rodgers. In return, Rodgers became the first passer in NFL history to throw for 4,000 yards or more in his first two seasons as a starter while leading the Packers to 11 wins last year. Developing an excellent rapport with his receivers, Rodgers is already considered one of the top quarterbacks in the game with room still to improve. Though he rode the bench for three seasons behind Favre, Rodgers' selection was well worth the wait. Grade: A

25 Jason Campbell, Washington Redskins, QB, Auburn

Analysis: Drafting a quarterback in the first round can be tricky – if you're the Redskins, that is. Campbell quickly fell out of favor, in part because he never had stability in his offensive system or coaching staff. His stats (namely a 55-38 TD-INT ratio) were respectable, but fans chastised him for his 20-32 record as a starter. He still feels he has something to prove, even if it is in Oakland. Given the plight of the Redskins franchise, Campbell performed admirably, at least up until last season's 4-12 debacle. Grade: C

26 Chris Spencer, Seattle Seahawks, C, Mississippi

Analysis: Spencer lost his job at center towards the end of last year, and finished the previous season on injured reserve. But he is still around, and figures to give Seattle a boost if he can stay healthy as he did when the team was last successful (he started 29 of 32 games in 06-07 when the Seahawks won their division both years). With Walter Jones gone and a new coaching regime in place, 2010 could be a make-or-break year for Spencer. Grade: B-

27 Roddy White, Atlanta Falcons, WR, UAB

Analysis: White was more of an afterthought during the Michael Vick era in Atlanta, catching just 59 passes in his first two seasons. When he became a full-time starter in 2007, White exploded onto the scene, even during a dismal 4-12 campaign in which his primary quarterbacks were Joey Harrington and Byron Leftwich. 2008-09 were Pro Bowl years for White, and from 07-09 he has averaged 85 catches for 1,246 and 8 touchdowns. A big, physical target, White is now considered a top-flight if not vastly underrated receiver. He and Matt Ryan have a chance to take the Falcons far in 2010. Grade: A

28 Luis Castillo, San Diego Chargers, DE, Northwestern

Analysis: Castillo's draft stock took a hit when he admitted in a letter to all 32 teams that he used performance-enhancing drugs in college, but Bolts GM A.J. Smith decided to take a chance on him anyway. He hasn't been a dominant force, but a steady performer nonetheless. He notched 7 of his 16.5 career sacks in just 10 games in 2006, a stat that left fans craving more from him. Instead, his numbers have declined somewhat. But given his ability to stay relatively healthy and be a good locker room presence, the Chargers shouldn't be knocked too hard for this one. Grade: B-

29 Marlin Jackson, Indianapolis Colts, CB, Michigan

Analysis: Colts fans will always remember Jackson for his game-clinching interception of Tom Brady in the 2006 AFC Championship game to send the Colts to Super Bowl XLI, but after performing steadily from 2005-07, Jackson has barely been able to find the field. After tearing his ACL 7 games into the 2008 season, Jackson played just 4 more last year before reinjuring the knee and ultimately losing his roster spot. He tore up his knee again before ever getting to play a down for Philadelphia, another setback in what has become a sad saga for a once-promising player. But the Colts got plenty from Jackson in those first three years, so as usual, a good job of evaluating talent by GM Bill Polian. Grade: B-

30 Heath Miller, Pittsburgh Steelers, TE, Virginia

Analysis: It is no coincidence the Steelers won the Super Bowl in Miller's first year. He gave their offense a much-needed threat in the middle of the field, and has not stopped producing since arriving in Pittsburgh. He has missed just two games in five years while recording 244 catches for 2,721 yards and 27 touchdowns, numbers that won't put him in the Hall of Fame but certainly at the top of this class. The 2009 Pro Bowler's role will be even more critical in 2010 following the loss of Santonio Holmes. Grade: A-

31 Mike Patterson, Philadelphia Eagles, DT, USC

Analysis: Patterson has shown flashes of brilliance during an otherwise-steady five years with Philly, although some might argue that by USC standards he has been average in the NFL. He has yet to miss a game with the Eagles, and has made 70 of 80 possible starts (all but one of those non-starts came his rookie year). From the interior line, Patterson has tallied 11 sacks, 5 fumble recoveries, and an interception to go along with 196 tackles. The Eagles have also been among the top teams in rush defense during Patterson's time there, so it would only be fair to give the Eagles a solid mark here. Grade: B

32 Logan Mankins, New England Patriots, OG, Fresno State

Analysis: Not surprisingly, the Patriots hit the jackpot on a player that was hardly a household name before he was drafted. Even at an unglamorous position like guard, Mankins has been a shining star. He has started every game in five years, helping protect Tom Brady (he was only sacked 16 times last season) while paving the way for an offensive that at times has been historically good, like in 2007 when they set a league-record by scoring 589 points. Currently in the middle of a potentially-nasty contract dispute, Mankins is one of the few Patriots players that may be difficult to replace. Grade: A

Other notable players drafted in 2005: Frank Gore, 49ers RB (3^rd round, 65^th overall), 2-time Pro Bowler who rushed for 1,695 yards in 2006; Darren Sproles, Chargers RB/KR (4^th round, 130^th overall), 4 career touchdowns on returns; Trent Cole, Eagles DE (5^th round, 146^th overall), 2-time Pro Bowl pick who has notched 47 sacks in five seasons; Jay Ratliff, Cowboys DT (7^th round, 224^th overall), 2-time Pro Bowler with 21 career sacks and 10 fumble recoveries from the interior line; Joshua Cribbs, Browns WR/KR (undrafted), 2007 and 09 Pro Bowler who has emerged as one of the game's most exciting players; Cribbs has scored 10 touchdowns on returns in just five seasons while also adding 908 yards from scrimmage.

Bishop Blanchet HS coach George Monica discusses No. 17 pick Josh Sale in a Q&A

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:48:40 +0100

DraftAmerica recently spoke with Bishop Blanchet HS coach George Monica about No. 17 overall pick Josh Sale, the outfielder taken by the Tampa Bay Rays.

DA: What's it been like to coach Josh and see him grow in front of your eyes like that?

GM: He was a starter for us starting with his freshman year, so we got him for four years and he's got about every school hitting record, both career and single season – or pretty darn close anyway. He worked very very hard, [and] it was tremendous focus for him. He got up every day and went to hit down by where he lives, in addition to all the other practices and stuff. And he's worked very very hard on his physical conditioning, his nutrition, you name it. He really earned that selection.

DA: Did you know you had a special player right from the get-go in Josh?

GM: I think we knew that he was going to be a really good player, but I don't think, at least in my mind, that you can ever project out somebody's actually going to be a first-round draft pick. We've been fortunate to have a lot of good players come through Blanchet, many college players, some players that were picked in the draft and alike, but to think that you're ever going to have a kid that's actually going to go that high, it's almost an impossible situation is some ways.

DA: Was it a big surprise for him to go in the first round?

GM: Well with all the attention that he got last year and this year, and the scouts talking to me and different people from different organizations, including Tampa Bay, that I guess we kind of knew he was going to go in the first round, and so it was a little bit anti-climactic, if that's ever possible when somebody goes in the first round. But we kind of did know that was going to take place.

DA: Still, it must have been a huge thrill for you and Josh.

GM: Oh absolutely. As I said earlier, you can hardly believe that [it was] one of your players it happened to.

DA: What are the Rays getting in Josh Sale?

GM: I think what they're getting is a kid that is really, really dedicated to becoming a great player. I don't think there's any reason for him to stop what's been his tremendous work ethic and dedication to being a great baseball player at this point. So I don't think that they're ever going to have a problem with him [not] being motivated to play.

DA: Is there anything in particular you think he might need to work on in order to get to that next level and excel in the major leagues?

GM: I think there's an awful lot of good players that get picked in the draft. And then it's a whole new ballgame trying to move through that system, and with all of the distractions, the travel, and all those things that take place with a young kid – and he is just a kid, he's only 18 years old, and I think [people] kind of forget that – and just like kids make adjustments when they go off to college, with dorm life and all that kind of stuff, he's going to have to make a heck of an adjustment here as well.

For more on Josh and the latest Rays information, check out dockoftherays.com

Woodward Academy coach Jim Minor discusses No. 8 overall pick Delino DeShields Jr. in a Q&A

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:31:43 +0100

Woodward Academy High School coach Jim Minor recently took the time to discuss his former standout Delino DeShields Jr., selected 8th overall in this year's draft by the Houston Astros.

DA: I want to congratulate you on Delino being drafted.

JM: Well thank you. That's real exciting to have a player chosen in the first round like that. It actually brought tears to my eyes, to be honest with you.

DA: Have you had any other players come out of Woodward?

JM: We haven't had anybody come out in the first round. We had a catcher two years ago that was drafted, but he was drafted down in the 32^nd round. His name's Brandon Miller. He was drafted by the Red Sox.

DA: What has it been like to coach Delino?

JM: Well he's a tremendous athlete and a tremendous player, and it's been a pleasure to have somebody on your team like that. A lot of teams in our region, teams that know us, in his junior and senior year people tried to pitch around him. Which is smart, it's what I would have done too (laughs). So a lot of times in ballgames people might throw him four straight balls and he walks, steals second, steals third, and manufactures a run. He had some big games for us where he'd hit a big home run, but a lot of times people tried to be super careful with him because he was a good hitter.

DA: Did you know that you had a special player from day one?

JM: When he was 12 years old, Baseball America picked him as the number one 12-year-old in the nation. Of course the history with his dad playing professional ball, we knew he was going to be something special all along. He's got tremendous speed, tremendous strength. He's just a well-rounded athlete.

DA: How excited was Delino to hear his name on draft day?

JM: I wasn't really there on draft day. I called the family, his dad and mom, and of course Delino too, and talked to all three of them shortly after he was drafted. Believe it or not I was actually at a baseball practice with the summer team trying to get home to see it. I couldn't get away from the practice. I really didn't expect him to go quite that quick. But that was exciting.

DA: What can the Astros expect from Delino DeShields Jr.?

JM: I've never seen an athlete that has the type of acceleration and can run the way he can. He's got tremendous speed, and I think he's going to hit for average and power. I think they got a real, well-rounded player. I understand they're planning on playing him at second base in the organization. He played third base for us his sophomore year, and probably had the best year at the plate he had in his career. He had about .590 his sophomore year, and then people found out who he was. They knew the name, but they didn't know how good he was. Of course, people were pitching to him as a sophomore, then his junior and senior year people stopped pitching to him. He still hit .450 his senior year, so he still had a good year but not the type of year he had his sophomore year. So he played third base for us his sophomore year, then the next year we lost a real good center fielder and with his speed and all, we thought [Delino] would be a perfect match for center field. And he did well out there, but he didn't really have a great feel for it, so we brought him back to third base for the second half of the season. And then his senior year he went back out to center field for us. He's played a lot of places; he may have even caught when he was younger. He's a good enough athlete where he can play anywhere on the baseball field. So I think [the Astros] have got a very versatile guy, and a guy with tremendous speed who I think is going to hit for both average and power as a pro player.

DA: What kind of influence has his father (former major-leaguer Delino Sr.) had on him?

JM: His dad was always around, at least for many years. His dad's a great guy. He really knew the game, he'd come out and help us some. But he never interfered. He and I got to be great friends. You'd think maybe a major-leaguer would be pushy coming out to practice, but he'd just fit in and work with the kids. We were always on the same page. Delino's junior year, his dad took a coaching job in Cincinnati, where he was an assistant with the rookie team (which he is now managing). So I think that hurt Delino a little bit not having his dad along, but it didn't hurt him too bad because he got drafted in the first round! (Laughs) But his dad [being there] was always a plus. They've got a good relationship, and obviously his dad's coached him all the way through, working with all his summer teams as he was coming up and all those kind of things.

For more on Delino DeShields Jr. and other Astros news, check out Crawfish Boxes

Looking back: The 2006 MLB Draft

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:07:39 +0100

It's been more than four years since the 2006 MLB Draft took place, but the names that checkered it are as fresh as ever. One of the beauties of looking back several years is that by now, we have a pretty good indication of how those teams and players have fared. So without further ado, it's time to break down one of the stronger first rounds in recent memories, complete with player analysis and a grade on how they have fared thus far in their journey.

Pick, Player, Team, Pos., School

1 Luke Hochevar, Kansas City Royals, RHP, University of Tennessee

Anaylsis: Hochevar's selection didn't create nearly the same buzz that more recent ones like David Price and Stephen Strasburg have, and perhaps with good reason. His inauspicious career has paralleled that of the Royals, who have yet to break through as seem feel they have the talent to do. In three-plus seasons at the major-league level, the tall righty has gone just 18-30 with a 5.68 ERA. This year has been his best yet, and that's not saying much. He is 5-4 with a 4.96 ERA but is currently on the disabled list with a sprained right elbow. Grade: D+

2 Greg Reynolds, Colorado Rockies, RHP, Stanford University

Analysis: Reynolds has been nothing short of a disaster for the Rockies. He has survived just 14 games in the major leagues, going 2-8 with an 8.13 ERA in 13 starts in 2008. Though his minor league numbers are somewhat respectable, he has found the disabled list more often than the mound. He was recently activated from the 60-day DL with an elbow contusion and is back at Double-A Tulsa. Grade: F

3 Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay Rays, 3B, Long Beach State University

Analysis: The Rays found a franchise player in Longoria, and he has been one of the key cogs in their remarkable turnaround in recent years. In three seasons in the majors, Longoria has made the All-Star team three times, been named Rookie of the Year, and earned both a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Award in the rugged American League. He continues to improve both offensively and defensively and will be a force in the AL East for years to come. Grade: A

4 Brad Lincoln, Pittsburgh Pirates, RHP, University of Houston

Analysis: Lincoln finally cracked the big-league club this season, almost a surprise given the struggles of the Pirates in recent years. Although his numbers are far from spectacular (1-3, 5.10), Lincoln has been durable in all seven of his starts, going six innings or more six times, and he earned his first big-league win with seven shutout frames against the Cubs on June 30. Lincoln figures to be a mainstay in the rotation for years to come. Grade: C-

5 Brandon Morrow, Seattle Mariners, RHP, UC-Berkeley

Analysis: Morrow has great stuff, but what's frustrated fans in both Seattle and now Toronto is his lack of command. He has shown flashes of brilliance, but ongoing problems locating the strike zone have driven managers and fans alike batty. The Mariners shipped him off to Toronto after three uneven seasons, and the inconsistency bug has continued to bite Morrow north of the border. In three-plus seasons, he is just 13-18 with a 4.26 ERA and an even-more alarming 5.3 walks per nine innings. A good fastball will only take you so far, and until Morrow can throw strikes on a regular basis, he will remain an enigma. Grade: C

6 Andrew Miller, Detroit Tigers, LHP, University of North Carolina

Analysis: Like Morrow, Miller's stuff has never been in question, but rather his command and mound presence. The Tigers apparently saw enough of him in just over a year in the big leagues to ship him off to Florida, where his problems continued. After going 9-15 in two seasons with the Marlins, Miller has spent the entire 2010 campaign in the minor leagues working on his control. The Tigers gave up awful quickly on Miller, but what they got in return was perhaps the best all-around player in the American League in Miguel Cabrera. Grade: C

7 Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers, LHP, Highland Park High School

Analysis: It hasn't always been picture-perfect, but Kershaw's two-plus years in the big leagues have been pretty smooth in Tinseltown. The hard-throwing lefty has struggled with his command at times, but a 22-18 record and even-more impressive 3.30 ERA have coincided with the Dodgers' return to the top of the heap in the National League. Kershaw has gotten better each year, and his 9-5 record and 3.16 ERA have helped keep the Dodgers afloat in a suddenly-tough NL West. If he can shake the walks, Kershaw will eventually evolve into the staff ace the Dodgers envisioned when they drafted him. Grade: A-

8 Drew Stubbs, Cincinnati Reds, CF, University of Texas

Analysis: Stubbs has emerged in 2010 after getting his feet wet last year in Cincy. Now a regular in the Reds' lineup, Stubbs has at least shown power potential with 11 home runs (including three in one game) despite a sub par .235 average. He has provided the Reds with an offensive spark as the team is in first place this late in the year for the first time this decade. Though he needs to cut down on the strikeouts (90 this year), he figures to get better as time goes on. Grade: B-

9 Bill Rowell, Baltimore Orioles, 3B, Bishop Eustace Prep School

Analysis: For a team that has had its fair share of poor draft picks, this one took the cake. The Orioles passed on two-time Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum apparently because they felt his odd throwing motion would lead to injuries. What they got instead was a player who hasn't ascended beyond high-A ball. In three seasons at Single-A Frederick, Rowell has hardly impressed, hitting .240 with 23 home runs. He doesn't figure to be in the club's big-league plans any time soon. On a side note, ponder this: Of the top 22 draft picks, Rowell is the only one without his own Wikipedia page. That should tell you all you need to know. Grade: F

10 Tim Lincecum, San Francisco Giants, RHP, University of Washington

Analysis: Lincecum's unique delivery has held up just fine in San Francisco, as the baby-faced righty already has two Cy Young awards under his belt. In this his fourth season in the majors, Lincecum is also a three-time All-Star who has posted a 50-21 record, 2.91 ERA, and 812 strikeouts. Safe to say one team's misery is another team's treasure. Grade: A

11 Max Scherzer, Arizona Diamondbacks, RHP, University of Missouri

Analysis: Scherzer didn't get much of a chance to shine in Arizona, as the D-Backs traded him to Detroit after last season. Like many young pitchers, the hard-throwing righty has shown flashes of brilliance while still batting inconsistency. He is 15-22 with a 4.13 ERA at the major-league level, but his 335 strikeouts have raised some eyebrows, including 14 in a game earlier this year. Scherzer and Justin Verlander will combine to give the Tigers a potent 1-2 punch of power arms in their rotation for future years. Grade: C+

12 Kasey Kiker, Texas Rangers, LHP, Russell County High School

Analysis: Kiker has hardly lived up to expectations, as the southpaw is still toiling away at Double-A Frisco. His minor league numbers won't excite anybody, as he is just 20-27 with a 4.07 ERA, including 1-4 with a 5.65 ERA this year. The Rangers already have a slew of talented arms at the major league level, leaving many to wonder if Kiker is in their future plans. Grade: D-

13 Tyler Colvin, Chicago Cubs, LF, Clemson University

Analysis: Colvin was at the heart of a war of words earlier this season between Cubs broadcaster Steve Stone and manager Lou Piniella. Many wondered why the talented young outfielder wasn't getting ample playing time, and rightfully so. Colvin has emerged in his first full year on the scene, hitting .262 with 12 home runs and 32 RBI. He has provided a boost to an otherwise-unspectacular lineup and will anchor the middle of the Cubs batting order for a long time. Grade: B+

14 Travis Snider, Toronto Blue Jays, RF, Henry M. Jackson High School

Analysis: Snider had been picking his game up when he went down in May with a sprained wrist. Though he is still learning how to hit and struggles against lefties, he has good power potential, as evidence by his six early-season home runs. He is just 22, so the Blue Jays have time to work with him to make sure he develops properly. Snider is an important part of their plans, so how he returns from his injury will be key. Grade: C+

15 Chris Marrero, Washington Nationals, 3B, Monsignor Edward Pace High School

Analysis: Marrero has yet to hit the majors, but at least he has given fans hope by posting respectable minor league numbers. He has played primarily first base, as his drafted position of third is blocked by mainstay Ryan Zimmerman. In 116 games at Double-A Harrisburg, Marrero has hit .288 with 13 homers and 61 driven in, and may find himself in Washington soon should the team move Adam Dunn. Grade: C-

16 Jeremy Jeffress, Milwaukee Brewers, RHP, Halifax County High School

Analysis: Stuck in high-A ball, Jeffress has been a disappointment thus far. The Brewers need pitching help, and the youngster has been nowhere to be found, struggling to a 20-21 record with a 4.04 ERA in the minors. Milwaukee seems to be taking its time with Jeffress, probably a good thing given his inconsistency. Grade: D-

17 Matt Antonelli, San Diego Padres, 3B, Wake Forest University

Analysis: Antonelli reached Triple-A ball in 2008, but has scuffled ever since, batting just .209 with 11 homers after showing promise at the lower levels. Just making contact has given him trouble, meaning he won't be helping the Padres in the immediate future. Grade: D

18 Kyle Drabek, Philadelphia Phillies, RHP, The Woodlands High School

Analysis: The Blue Jays targeted Drabek when they were planning to deal Roy Halladay, and they ultimately landed the son of former major leaguer Doug Drabek. The youngster had been progressing nicely for the Phillies, and has continued that progress with the Blue Jays. In 33 minor league games (32 starts), Drabek has gone 17-10 with a 3.31 ERA. Though he never pitched for the Phillies, he did help them land the coveted Halladay, so they get a strong grade anyway. Grade: B+

19 Brett Sinkbeil, Florida Marlins, RHP, Missouri State University

Analysis: Sinkbeil has yet to adjust to Triple-A ball, going 3-11 with a 6.20 ERA in 85 games (just 8 starts). His numbers as a starter at the lower levels makes one wonder if that isn't where his future lies, because as a reliever Sinkbeil has had his share of issues. The Marlins may have a decision to make on Sinkbeil, who hasn't warranted a promotion by any stretch. Grade: D-

20 Chris Parmelee, Minnesota Twins, RF, Chino Hills High School

Analysis: Parmelee has been steady if not spectacular in the Twins' system, averaging 15 home runs a year from 2007-09. He is hitting .272 with 7 dingers between high-A and Double-A ball this season. Still, he has played just 62 games in Double-A, so he doesn't figure to land in Minnesota for a couple more years. Grade: C-

21 Ian Kennedy, New York Yankees, RHP, USC

Analysis: Kennedy showed occasional promise during an otherwise rocky tenure in the Bronx before the Yankees finally sent him to Arizona last offseason. At times Kennedy has impressed with the D-Backs, compiling a 4-7 record with a 4.12 ERA in 2010. He has racked up 100 strikeouts, meaning he seems to have turned a corner as far as his command is concerned. The Yankees get credit for the return they got for Kennedy in a three-team trade that also included Scherzer. Grade: B-

22 Colton Willems, Washington Nationals, RHP, John Carroll Catholic High School

Analysis: Considering the Nationals' gaping hole in their rotation, the fact that Willems hasn't played beyond high-A ball should be an indication of his struggles thus far. Issues with his command have played a part, but his 9-17 record and 4.00 ERA at the low minor league levels haven't helped either. Willems has been nothing short of a major disappointment thus far. Grade: F

23 Maxwell Sapp, Houston Astros, C, Bishop Moore High School

Analysis: There may be no sadder story in this first round than Sapp's. The Astros saw the youngster struggle mightily with a .224 average and just 7 home runs while never getting beyond Single-A ball. Sapp then sat out then entire 2009 season with a life-threatening case of meningitis before the Astros finally released him this year. As often seems to be the case, the players in a draft that fall the farthest always seem to be in the organizations that struggle the most. The Astros will have to chalk this one up to experience, as they have already moved on. Grade: F

24 Cody Johnson, Atlanta Braves, 1B, A. Crawford Mosley High School

Analysis: Johnson has shown a lot of promise in the minors, hitting 58 home runs in 2008-09 between A and AA ball. He is batting just .210 with 10 homers at Double-A Mississippi this year, and his 97 strikeouts are another indication that he still has some holes in his swing. But if he can fix some of those woes, he figures to make a splash in Atlanta at some point. Grade: C

25 Hank Conger, Los Angeles Angels, C, Huntington Beach High School

Analysis: Conger recently took place in the Futures game and won the game's MVP honors, which is why the Angels are quite excited about him. He has hit .292 with 41 home runs in the minor leagues, and it won't be long before he finds himself in Anaheim. Though the Angels have Mike Napoli and Jeff Mathis getting the job done at catcher, they will find a place for Conger, who also has improved his defense behind the plate this year. Grade: B-

26 Bryan Morris, Los Angeles Dodgers, RHP, Motlow State Community College

Analysis: Morris is among the countless prospects the Pirates have received when shipping off a big name to a contending team at midseason, netting the Red Sox Jason Bay and the Dodgers Manny Ramirez in 2008. He has shown some promise in the minors, but has yet to get beyond Double-A. Additionally, he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2007 and then was suspended five games by the organization in 2009 for “unprofessionalism”. Still, with the Pirates being perennial bottom-feeders, Morris will likely find himself in a Bucs uniform sometime soon. For the Dodgers, having Manny Ramirez instead isn't too shabby. Grade: C

27 Jason Place, Boston Red Sox, CF, Wren High School

Analysis: Place may not have one in Boston for a while given the team's never-ending depth, but he has shown flashes in the minors. Place was inactive for a while this year and his numbers have slipped drastically, but he hit 31 home runs from 2007-08 in A and high-A ball. Still, with the rash of injuries the Red Sox have had in their outfield this year, it is probably somewhat telling that Place's name hasn't even surfaced as a possible suitor. Needless to say, the team will have to let Place develop quite a bit more before he's ready for prime time. A rare miss thus far for the charmed Sox. Grade: D-

28 Daniel Bard, Boston Red Sox, RHP, University of North Carolina

Analysis: Did we say rare miss for Boston? Bard has been anything but a miss, except when it comes to missing bats. The flame-throwing righty has quickly righted any control woes he had in the minors to become Boston's go-to guy in the 8^th inning to set up Jonathan Papelbon. In fact, Bard has been so dominant at times there have been rumblings the team may move Papelbon and make him the closer. But while those reports are quite inaccurate, Bard hasn't taken long to adapt to the major-league level. This season, Bard has posted a 1.85 ERA in 42 appearances while also chipping in 3 saves. He has fanned 45 batters in 43.2 innings, a byproduct of developing a solid slider to complement his blazing fastball. Closing may indeed be in his future. Grade: A

29 Kyle McCulloch, Chicago White Sox, RHP, University of Texas

Analysis: 29-38 with a 4.37 ERA isn't going to get anyone riled up about McCulloch, but he has at least finally reached Triple-A. With the White Sox having some bullpen issues, they may be able to overlook his 1-3 record and 6.39 ERA this season, but it's clear McCulloch still needs more time to develop. Especially when he has 9 walks and 8 strikeouts. Grade: D+

30 Adam Ottavino, St. Louis Cardinals, RHP, Northeastern University

Analysis: Ottavino earned a promotion to St. Louis this season, struggling to an 0-2 record with an 8.46 ERA in five games with three starts before landing on the disabled list. But he is still a highly-touted prospect who deserves credit for cracking a rotation that contains Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. He may still need time to develop, but he is on the right track. Grade: B

Notable supplemental first-rounders and second rounders: Chris Coghlan, Marlins OF (2009 NL Rookie of the Year), Joba Chamberlain, Yankees RHP (current setup man to Mariano Rivera), Brett Anderson, LHP (Drafted by Arizona, currently with Oakland), Wade LeBlanc, Padres LHP (3.30 ERA in 16 starts for San Diego this year), Trevor Cahill, Athletics RHP (named to 2010 All-Star team), Justin Masterson, RHP (key reliever for Red Sox, currently a starter for Indians).

NHL Draft: Interview with Corey Pronman

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 20:46:36 +0100

I'm Draft America’s NHL Draft Editor, Ryan Wagman, and today the Spotlight shines on Corey Pronman, hockey prospect guru from Puck Prospectus, and a key player for the upcoming prospect site, Premium Scouting. Let's get right to the interview...

Ryan Wagman: Corey, thanks for taking some time for Draft America’s readers. Tell us about your newest project.

Corey Pronman: The site is called Premium Scouting. The purpose of it is to bring regular reports, analysis and news on pre-and post NHL draft prospects throughout North America and the world as well as reporting on the leagues themselves. What will make this site unique is how frequent the content will be.

RW: When do you expect it to be up and from where will the reports be coming?

CP: It will be up in late- June and the reports come from scouts from all around the world.

RW: How did you get started in the world of scouting? What's your hockey background?

CP: Really it's just like any other job, you start at the bottom and work your way up. I obviously love hockey and scouting to me was more of a hobby, just going out to the rink and micro-analyzing players once a week or so, I enjoy it, so I offered a junior team my services and just got into it that way. Being in an area like Florida which is just starting to produce quality players into the junior and college ranks with limited coverage was a big bonus for me also, as not many teams gets coverage down here.

RW: How typical is your arrangement?

Being in Florida, do you feel the NHL's movement into non-traditional, warm-weathered areas like Florida, California, Phoenix, Nashville, etc.. is bearing fruit? Are more kids from these areas taken in by the lure of the ice?

CP: Well the southern expansion is definitely working. It may not be immediate, over-whelming effects that some pundits or mainstreamers may want to see, but the effects are there. California is a major hockey state now. Cali-born players are in the Olympics, in the World Juniors, in this draft (Etem) and next year's draft a in my opinoin top 5 pick in Shane McColgan. Geoffrion born here in Florida and raised in Tennesse won the Hobey Baker.

There's more kids being taken from non-natural areas into junior A, tier 2 college, NAHL and USHL teams etc. One of the junior teams that has been in contact with me was intrigued with the Florida region because of the Florida players that had come into their organization.

It's still not great, there is no Crosby or Stamkos, Tavares or Hall coming out of Oklahoma yet (even though Seth Jones - a Texas-bred defenseman may be the first sunbelt top pick in the 2013 draft - that's obviously a ways away though) but the difference is significant from 10-15 years ago.

A lot of people get into the game from their parents, who move down here from New York, Michigan, Minnesota, etc. There is a small handful of pure Floridians growing up with the Panthers. If they could actually put a product down, it would help tremendously, though. Also the hockey in the state gets watered down because of the lack of coverage, the second a player is labelled as decent, they move north. Or the local Bantam AAA or Midget AAA organizations form a travel team to play in bigger northern tournaments.

RW: A few weeks ago, we engaged in an interesting discussion about providing "comps" for prospects. You were very much opposed. Can you tell us more about why you do not like the practice?

CP: Doing player comparisons in my opinion can give false impressions of players to the readers, even if it's completely unintentional. You may mean to say a player plays a style similar to Joe Sakic, but others will read it and say, "Wow he's like Joe Sakic?!" By doing complete profiles, with proper detailing and clear explanations of the player, doing comparisons is unnecessary as long as you give the most proper picture of the player possible.

RW: As a scout, what are some of the thing you look for in a player? Both positive and negative? Also, in what ways can junior-level statistics be deceiving?

CP: When looking at a player, the key to scouting is looking at a player and seeing how are they going to fit down the road at a higher level. If a player tries to toe drag between two defenseman going 5 miles an hour and gets away with it in the QMJHL, that looks pretty and all, but he'll get flattened doing that in the pros. You're essentially looking for the skills of a player or what in baseball they call tools. Mainly their skating, puck skills, shot, hockey sense, size/strength and if you want to call it a skill (albeit debatable), work ethic as well. For example, every year there's some wonderkid in the CHL or some league that's small but puts up big numbers, however he lacks the high-end skills to compensate for his lack of size/strength to be a productive player at the higher levels.

Red flags, asides from lacking the skills I mentioned, would be intangible issues or lack of work ethic. Hockey is a very tough game to play and the willingless to work, to learn, to be a quality player and person is essential to getting through the grind of developing through the minors and to overcome the hurdles of the pro game.

RW: In your view, what is the main difference between scouting at the Junior level and scouting for the pros?

CP: Well when you're scouting junior or pre-draft, you're projecting, you're trying to make an educated guess of where player X is going to be in 5 years. Doing pro scouting, you kind of have an idea of what the player is and you're mainly doing as much in-depth evaluations of the current player as possible. Pre-draft scouting is by far the hardest and more complex which is why a guy like Hakan Andersson will never be without a job in hockey.

RW: Would you be willing to give the readers a scoop on a draft prospect who may be underrated but will surprise?

CP: There are quite a few names I could bring up, Jordan Weal or Joey Hishon come to mind even Troy Rutowski. A guy I really like that even though he's in the bottom-end of most top 30's, is Jaden Schwartz out of Tri-City in the USHL. I really don't understand why more people aren't talking about him. I had him at #10 in my mid-season rankings, he may slide down for the end of year, but this is a talented kid.

He is very smart, shifty with the puck and can make some great distributions and decisions to continually create offense. He is a complete player as well, good in his own end and can kill penalties. He destroyed the USHL in a league where he won the scoring title with 83 points as a 17 year old. Mind you in the USHL 75-80 points is usually what makes you a lock for a scoring title, not a tremendously offensive league. That point total was also double that of the 2nd place Tri-City Storm player, showing he wasn't benefiting from a great team.

His skating could stand to get better and his size will be in question, but to a team picking around 20, I recommend taking a chance on Jaden Schwartz.

RW: What do you think about the growing trend of players going right from the draft to the NHL? I did a study a while back, and while used to be 2-3 per draft, there are now 4-5. I think it has a lot to do with the new salary cap world - what's your take?

CP: The cap is an obvious factor. Not because people want to rush their prospects, but because they have gaps on their rosters and they need cheap production to fill those roster spots. With how quickly these players under the current CBA reach free agency, I'm sure there's nothing more a team would like more than to keep them out of the NHL if possible.

RW: Corey – thank you for your time and patience.

Late Draft Buzz...

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 16:15:51 +0100

**It is all but assured that Bryce Harper will be taken #1 overall by the Nats.

**Rumors swirl back and forth on who Pittsburgh takes with the 2nd pick, but nearly everyone agrees it will be either Taillon or Machado. Whomever Pittsburgh does not take, the Orioles -at #3- will.

**Florida prep right-hander Luke Jackson, Georgia prep outfielders Jake Skole and Delino DeShields, Jr, Pennsylvania prep lefty Jesse Biddle, Michigan outfielder Ryan LaMarre, Indiana prep catcher Justin O'Connor, and California prep right-hander Peter Tago seem to be making late pushes upward.

**Virginia Tech pitcher Jesse Hahn appears to have slid a bit.

**Anthony Ranaudo appears to be a bit of a wild-card, although most don't see him being selected until #20 and later.

**The Royals appear set on taking Miami catcher Yasmani Grandal.

Thoughts on the A.L. East

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:06:19 +0100

A quick introduction...

I'm DA's freelance blogger, Michael Seff... and this is the first installment of my ongoing blog series: SeffSpeak.

The AL East is already the strongest division in baseball, so it would likely be safe to assume that the top teams in it figure to be on the mark with this year's draft.

It's a shame the Baltimore Orioles won't have the top pick until next year's draft, because Bryce Harper is a rare can't-miss prospect. He will end up less than an hour down the road in Washington.

The interesting teams to watch, as usual, will be the division's top dogs. Namely, the Yankees, Red Sox, and Rays.

In recent years, the trio has hit on some big-time prospects who have helped elevate the clubs into elite status. Phil Hughes and Robinson Cano are gems of the Yankees' system, Jacoby Ellsbury and Clay Buchholz have blossomed for the Sox, and the Rays have a future star in David Price.

With the depth those particular organizations have in their farm systems, rushing a young player to the majors is not something they need to worry about.

The Orioles have the third overall pick, and thus an outside shot at University of Miami shortstop Manny Machado. Since Cal Ripken's departure, to say that has been an area of need is an understatement.

The Rays' first selection comes at 17, while Boston gets number 20 and the Yankees do not choose until 32. While some of the premier names may be off the board by then, there's no question those teams can still land a top-notch player.

Tampa Bay has a revolving door in right field, and with Carl Crawford's pending free agency it might not be too presumptuous for think they will target an outfielder. Texas-Arlington's Michael Choice, MTSU's Bryce Brentz, and high-schooler Austin Wilson all could be available at 17.

As for the Red Sox, their new philosophy centers around pitching and defense. Seeing how much success they've had drafting pitchers of late, it wouldn't be far-fetched for them to try and nab a project like UNC's Matt Harvey or The Citadel's Asher Wojciechowski.

Boston not only loves to develop their own pitchers, but they are quite fond of power arms. A number of their current pitchers can touch the mid-90's and beyond.

Then there's the Yankees. The jury is still out on Joba Chamberlain, but Phil Hughes has been dominant this year. This could encourage them to try and replicate that success, but there always seems to be grumblings about the need to upgrade their outfield, so the Yankees could go either way there.

Of course, the MLB draft is nothing like the NFL draft. Teams rarely draft for need because there are so many players, so much stock that goes into player development, and no real timetable for any particular player to get to the Major Leagues.

But one would have to think that teams, especially struggling ones like the Orioles, can't help but think shorter-term as far as plugging holes on their roster.

The Few, The Proud, The Underrated?

Sun, 30 May 2010 16:04:17 +0100

Every year there are many talented prospects that get a bit lost in the shuffle, but are still prospects I believe can be potential outstanding players at the ML level. These are a few players that are -in my view- underrated...

#72 > Garin Cecchini, 3B, Barbe HS (LA)... Injury took a toll on his season, and the LSU commitment may worry some, but Cecchini has a great deal of upside with a quick bat and strong build. Could be a real steal after round one.

#78 > Tony Wolters, SS, Rancho Buena Vista HS (CA)... Too short. Tell Dustin Pedroia that. Outstanding results with a less-than-ideal stature and skill-set.

#NR > Jacoby Jones, SS, Richton HS (MS)... Big, athletic SS with a quick bat, solid power potential, and solid defensive skillset.

#NR > Michael Lorenzon, OF, Fullerton Union HS (CA)... At 6'2-175, Lorenzon is lean and athletic. He's not particularly fast, but runs well and is simply a gamer. Very good contact hitter with some power potential and plus arm. Could be a real steal if he adds power to an already solid skill-set.

--Greg Pappas