I sat on the New Hampshire (TOR)/Binghamton (NYM) series last week in the Eastern League. RHP Conner Greene, RHP Sean Reid-Foley, RHP Francisco Rios, and LHP Tim Mayza from the Jays, and RHP P.J. Conlon from the Mets make up Part One of my looks.
Here’s fresh video of five top prep players from California who should be on your follow list for the upcoming MLB First-Year Player Draft on June 12.
Smith attracted the Mets’ attention playing the showcase circuit as high schooler, becoming their first-round pick in 2013. Fast-forward to three seasons of raking in the minors, and his MLB debut could be coming soon.
The much-anticipated major league debut of Ian Happ (2B/OF, Cubs) did not disappoint Cub fans, while utilityman Chris Bostick (LF, Pirates) and Josh Lindblom (RHP, Pirates) shared a unique bond when Bostick made his debut on May 8.
California League pitching staffs will be happy to be rid of Brendan Rodgers (SS, Rockies) as soon as possible, given his torrid start to the season. And Kevin Kramer (2B, Pirates), Mike Gerber (CF, Tigers), Harrison Bader (OF, Cardinals) and Tristin McKenzie (RHP, Indians) are among a fresh group of players that we had a look at last week.
We’re back with looks at Carter Kieboom (SS, Nationals), Mitchell White (RHP, Dodgers), Tyler Krieger (SS/2B, Indians), Matt Gage (LHP, Giants), Jimmie Sherfy (RHP, Diamondbacks), and a pair of Mariners’ right-handers that could be seeing time with the big league club by the end of the year.
A 29-year major league scout with the Orioles and Blue Jays from 1988-2016, Lekas will be covering the International, Eastern, Carolina, and NY-Penn Leagues for 2080 Baseball this season.
Ryan Ozella takes a look at video of five top position players who should be on your follow list for the upcoming MLB First-Year Player Draft on June 12.
Burke Granger and Ryan Ozella profile Tanner Houck (RHP, Missouri), Michael Gigliotti (CF, Lipscomb) and Tyler Adkison (LF, San Diego St.), while Ozella thinks a season-ending hot streak from a Stanford Cardinal outfielder may bump him into Day Two consideration.
Now healthy after 2015 back surgery, the former 2014 Perfect Game All-American has begun his 2017 season by dominating Southern League hitters.
