MLB Draft
The Cleveland Indians were granted four selections within the first two rounds of the draft. They owned the 21st pick in the first round as well as the 31st pick, given as compensation for Ubaldo Jimenez leaving in free agency. Cleveland also possessed the 38th and 61st selections. The Indians selected two college outfielders and two high school pitchers.
With our first draft pick, the Indians committed to Bradley Zimmer, outfielder from the University of San Francisco. According to MLB.com, Zimmer is the tenth ranked prospect and is an everyday outfielder with five tools. If Zimmer can improve his power, there is no doubt he has All-Star potential. The left handed batter is perceptive with great speed, size, and strength to compliment an amazing arm and instincts. Bradley Zimmer could move to right field to play alongside last year draftee, Clint Frazier.
Next, with the compensation pick, the Indians drafted Justus Sheffield, a left handed pitcher from Tullahoma High School. Sheffield earned Gatorade National Player of the Year, the first player from the state of Tennessee to win the award. The 39th ranked prospect has starting potential with a strong body, quick arm, and clean delivery. Sheffield’s arsenal consists of a 90-92 mph fastball to counteract his change-up and curveball.
Later, sitting in the 38th spot, Cleveland landed Mike Papi, outfielder from the University of Virginia. The versatile player can fill in all outfield positions in addition to first base. Papi, another left handed batter, wields a power bat leading the ACC with 11 home runs. The power hitter can also control the strike zone with deep counts and drawing walks (53 last year).
Finally, with our last draft choice, UCLA commit Grant Hockin, was taken by the Indians. The right handed pitcher from Damien High School has a good feel for pitching despite being so young. The 91st ranked prospect is ahead of the curve packing four weapons of choice. His fastball ranges from 88-92 mph, but peaks at 95 mph. Hockin can also throw a slider, a curve, and a change-up.
In conclusion, the Indians clear focus was on pitchers and outfielders. Cleveland intends to develop young high school talent into major league pitchers. Hopefully, these kids will pan out into amazing pitchers. The Indians decided to search for more developed position players that need less work and attention. Without a doubt, Indians fans will be hearing Bradley Zimmer’s name soon enough.
-Max Gold
Image Credited to: www.pinetarpress.com
