As we have been for the last few months, today we pump out 50 more prospects in our lead up to the 2021 MLB Draft. Along with the addition of 50 new names, the new Top 300 will include our stock watch feature highlighting the current trajectory of every player. Each player will have an up or down arrow on their profile denoting where we currently have their stock moving in the last two months.
New this week are the additions and insight of Tyler Jennings and Ian Smith, two of our area scouts. Both Jennings and Smith have been to multiple showcases this year, as well countless over the past few years. They bring more on-the-ground coverage to our team. You’ll be seeing more of them on our 2021 MLB Draft Show on YouTube in the coming weeks as well.
Some notable storylines from the past eight weeks:
Tons of data continues to stream in from fall scrimmages through on-site scouting, Rapsodo bullpens, and TrackMan data. Notable velocity gains continue to steer the narrative with guys like Jack Leiter, Mason Black, Ty Madden and Kevin Abel really standing out.
Arkansas outfielder Christian Franklin has drawn rave reviews on his leadership and physicality on the baseball field. He’s looked extremely comfortable in centerfield and figures to remain there as a pro.
Arkansas shortstop Jalen Battles has really taken claim of the position for the Razorbacks and has looked really strong with the bat and glove. In a weaker year for college infielders, Battles has a chance to really ascend into Top 50 range.
LHP Gage Jump continues his rise into first round grades as the velocity really peaked at WWBA and in recent bullpen. The diminutive southpaw has routinely been 91-94 in recent looks and the curveball has taken immense strides this summer.
Prep righty Ben Kudrna really popped after an impressive showing at WWBA last week. The stuff is advanced for his age, the command has bumped up and the body continues to be incredibly intriguing to pro scouts.
Coral Springs SS/3B Gavin Conticello really helped his stock at WWBA going 7 for 11 with 4 extra base hits. Conticello has a violent, rotational swing that produces massive barrel velocity and subsequent exit velocities. There’s some similarities to 2020 draftee Coby Mayo.
The biggest jump in two months? Kudrna -- up 102 spots to no. 82. He’s firmly in day-one chatter right now and could end up a top 50 pick if the velo bumps into next Spring like many are expecting.