Owen Miller
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Miller has done nothing but hit since signing under-slot with the Padres in 2018’s third round. He reached Double-A by the end of his pro debut last summer, and was named an all-star in the Texas League repeating the level in 2019. We love his feel to hit and considered him one of the top sleepers in the Padres’ loaded system, and he has backed that up so far this season. Miller has an efficient stroke with plus batspeed and barrel control, grading as a potentially above-average hitter who won’t whiff much. His level path and contact-focused approach don’t lend themselves to much power, though he has shown a bit more pop in 2019 and is putting fewer balls on the ground. He’s more reliable than flashy at short, and it isn’t a sure thing he stays at the position in the big leagues. If he does, the hit-first profile gives the chance to finish an everyday player. Even if he winds up a hair short of that, Miller’s fundamental game, plus instincts, and defensive versatility can combine to make him a solid role player or utility type. |
