MLB Draft
Prospects Live Staff
Landon Sims - MLB Draft Profile

2022 MLB Draft Scouting Report for RHP Landon Sims

MLB Draft
Prospects Live Staff
Elijah Green - MLB Draft Profile

2022 MLB Draft Scouting Report & Interview with Elijah Green

MLB Draft
Prospects Live Staff
Cole Young - MLB Draft Profile
MLB Draft
Prospects Live Staff
Bryce Hubbart - MLB Draft Profile
MLB Draft
Prospects Live Staff
Zach Neto - MLB Draft Profile

Mike Kinsela

Anthony Volpe - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 NYY SS 5 50

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 60 50 55 50 50

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 20 yr
Height: 5-11
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round 1
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Compact, athletic build with good weight distribution and some projection remaining. Has come into more and more strength, body still projects some moving forward.

Hit: Volpe's hit tool was one of the best of the 2019 prep class and it projects to be an above-average tool for him. The swing is simple, compact, and direct with above-average bat speed that portends some power projection. He's always been able to control the zone and in spite of elevated K numbers in rookie ball, he still walked quite a bit. The ingredients of a plus hit tool are here. Grade: 60

Power: Volpe is certainly a hit-over-power profile, but there's some present pop to his game right now and the projection for more is there given his frame and bat speed. He's more of a line drive, gap-to-gap approach at the plate but can turn on fastballs over the plate and can drive mistakes out to the pull-side. His consistent contact quality will lead to plenty of extra base hits and the projection for 15-18 HR annually is there. Grade: 50

Field: The instincts come into play here as well, as Volpe was lauded as the most steady, consistent infield defender in the '19 prep class, though he lacks explosive athleticism. His range, hands, feet, and feel for the position all grade above-average and he's got a higher degree of polish as a defender than most prep drafts do. Good chance to play short long term, backup plan of 2nd base. Grade: 55

Arm: Neither a plus nor minus here, Volpe has solid-average raw arm strength that plays well due to the quickness of his release and the consistency of his mechanics and subsequent accuracy. Can make all the throws required to play shortstop, though arm will never be a weapon. Grade: 50

Run: Volpe can turn in an above-average time down the line but is mostly a solid-average runner who maximizes his speed with an extremely instinctual baserunning game. His instincts should allow him to steal some bases, but it's not a burner profile. Grade: 50

Overall: Hit tool-driven profile with shortstop projection, Volpe lacks a super high ceiling but has a high one as well as more of a floor than typical prep drafts. Still risky as are all HS hitters, but the upside of first division starting shortstop exists here.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: High

Beck Way - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 NYY RHP 15 45

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role FB SL CH Cnt/Cmd
45 40 55 50 60 55/50

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 21 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 4
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Long, lanky build with good present strength as well as moderate remaining projection. Broadness to back and shoulders, can fill out torso even more. Good body.

Mechanics: Clean gather over backside with good hip hinge, rides slope and fires hips well, gets rotated and linear in direction downhill, linear plant, some length to arm stroke, will get offline with moderate hook, back elbow height stays tolerable, 3/4 slot with good angle, can leverage the ball while creating angle, small recoil with moderate effort, plus arm speed.

Fastball: Pitch worked in the 92-94 mph range his draft spring for the most part, touching 96-97 mph at times. Flashes of plus life to the arm side, pitch can miss bats with velocity/movement combo, but can also be used as a barrel-misser to induce weak contact. Showed ability to hold velocity in starter role and move the pitch around the strike zone, likely something like above-average starter projection that could tick up a half-full grade in short bursts. Grade: 55

Slider: Pitch that improved the most during his time at NWFL, struggled with getting under the pitch and killing the spin, flattening it out and leaving it very hittable. Consistency of tilt and overall action improved, has flashed above-average at times generally in 82-84 mph range, more vertical break will continue improving the pitch, think a solid-average future exists here. Grade: 50

Changeup: Best pitch, plays extremely well off of fastball, kills spin on pitch and tunnels it well, turns it over and creates plus tumbling action at times, generally thrown with 8-10 mph separation from fastball, has trust and conviction, can miss bats under swings consistently with the pitch, has some splitter action at times but is a changeup, plus pitch. Grade: 60

Control and Command: Way really improved on these once he moved to NWFL, showing the ability to throw strikes consistently and move the ball around in a starter role. There really isn't enough evidence of him throwing strikes in a starter role to use stats here, but in spring looks, scouts were optimistic that he'll definitely throw enough strikes to start, but were less sure on the command projection. Control: 55 | Command: 50

Overall: A somewhat-projectable righthander with 3 pitches that project average or better along with good size, a chance to start, and a still-upwards developmental trajectory. Was viewed higher on some boards than where the Yankees got him, think a backend starter or quality set up type bullpen future exists here.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Low Leverage Reliever
Risk: High

T.J. Sikkema - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 NYY LHP 12 45

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role FB SL CH Cnt/Cmd
45 40 55 55 50 55/50

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 221 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round CBA
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Stockier, physical build with good strength throughout, built well, limited if any projection remaining on frame.

Mechanics: Sikkema has a good bit of funk to his operation, including purposeful variation of his arm slot as well as an extremely crossfire stride. It's not what one would call a pretty delivery, but he's on time, creates a ton of deception, and is able to repeat well given the strength of his body.

Fastball: The fastball is where the variations in arm slot come into play the most, will work in 88-92 mph range with plus arm side life from lower 3/4 slot, will raise up to overhand slot at times and can work in more 92-95 mph range, does a nice job mixing and matching and keeping hitters off balance as a result, variations should play both in starting and bullpen role. Grade: 55

Slider: More of a slurvy look but comes with power and bite, generally in the 78-84 mph range with variations dependent on slot, can sweep it across the zone away from lefties as well as bury it under the hands of righties, pitch is plus at it's best but will get under it and leave it fat at times, should be successful as a bat-misser at the highest level. Grade: 55

Changeup: Third pitch but a solid one, generates good sink, trusts it and throws it with conviction, likely won't be a bat-missing pitch but can keep righthanded hitters off of his primary offerings, tunnels well off of fastball. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Sikkema pounded the zone in his first foray into pro ball with only 1 walk in 10.2 NYPL innings in 2019, and consistently threw strikes at Missouri across several roles. The delivery and funk keep the command from being pinpoint but it's at least average command with a good chance to start. Control: 55 | Command: 50

Overall: Sikkema has a chance to provide value in several roles, his upside is that of a backend starter and/or late innings reliever, though the floor here is that of a middle innings matchup guy in the big leagues thanks to his funk, stuff, and strikes. He was viewed as a bit of a reach at draft time at pick 38, but it's looking more and more like the Yankees got a good player here.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Low Leverage Reliever
Risk: Moderate

Coby Mayo - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 BAL 3B 13 45

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 40 60 45 60 40

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft - Round 4
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Physical monster, tall and strong with broad shoulders and strength throughout build. Has some leanness to torso yet, could add weight, could realistically see 6-6/230+ by the time he's done growing.

Hit: Mayo's swing is geared for power, long and strong with above-average bat speed and a pull-side approach, getting the barrel turned well but taking something of a longer path to getting there. He's shown, at the amateur level, the ability to work counts and stay within an approach, but there has always been some swing-and-miss issues and he may have trouble getting to elite velocity. Grade: 40

Power: The raw power is plus right now, with easy 70 projection and a chance to reach true 80 grade raw power in the future. He's shown the ability to drive the ball out to all parts of the park, though he's very much a pull-side preference right now, to the point where it's impacted his overall game at times. With continued refinements in his approach, Mayo has a chance for plus-or-better game power output. Grade: 60

Field: Mayo plays third base right now, and while he presently shows the hands and arm strength for the position, he's somewhat limited in terms of range and first step twitch, both of which are only expected to regress as he continues to fill out his substantial frame. He should be developed as a third baseman and certainly has a chance to stay there long term, but he likely falls shy of an average defender there. Grade: 45

Arm: This has a chance to be a plus tool, with above-average raw arm strength right now with online, true carry across the diamond. It's the type of arm that, with continued refinements in terms of release consistency and better patterning of his lower half, could be projected to plus. Grade: 55

Run: Mayo is presently a fringe-to-below average runner down the line right now, mostly in the 4.4 second range. The speed is likely to continue slowing down as he gets bigger, but he's got solid athleticism and it's not unrealistic to expect him to settle in as a non-base clogging type of below average runner. Grade: 40

Overall: Mayo's power is the draw here, and what got him enough money in the draft to be signed away from the University of Florida. Some comps have been drawn to both Austin Riley of the Braves and Bobby Dalbec of the Red Sox, with both bearing some semblance of reality. In a perfect world, he'll hit enough to get to 30 bombs a year and play a passable third base, but the most likely outcome seems to be that of a 1st baseman who can get to 20-25 home runs per year, with high strikeout numbers.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Platoon or Utility
Risk: High

Jordan Westburg - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 BAL SS 8 45

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 40 55 50 60 50

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 203 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft - Round CBA
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Athletic, tapered build with long musculature and high waist, looks the part of high-level athlete with strength to build and moderate projection remaining.

Hit: Westburg's developmental trajectory of his hit tool is still pointed up, as he's done an excellent job throughout his college career of consistently cutting down on his strikeouts, adding to his walk totals, and getting to his power with more frequency. It's plus bat speed, though he gets pull-happy often and will often take plus-count swings in minus-count situations, which has led to some trouble with strikeouts. The overall upside here is still a very good one, even if Westburg falls shy of a solid-average hit tool. Grade: 40

Power: The raw power is plus, with his excellent right-handed bat speed and physical strength combining to give him excellent power to the pull-side in particular, though he's got the ability to exit the yard in any direction. The approach is to pull, as stated, and while Westburg's hit tool should allow him to play with above-average power frequency, he's still likely to swing and miss too much to really get to plus power output. Grade: 55

Field: Westburg presently has the range, hands, actions, athleticism, and footwork to play the shortstop position, though the concern is that he might end up too big to play there long term. At 6-3/205 right now, Westburg could conceivably get to 220+ long term, and that could in turn affect his lateral agility to the point of moving to 3rd base. For now, shortstop is the projection, and Westburg has shown enough to be given a solid-average grade there. Grade: 50

Arm: The arm is a weapon, with excellent strength and true carry on a line, and he's shown the ability to consistently throw accurately from multiple slots and out of multiple positions, which is always necessary to see when projecting a plus tool. His arm aids in his overall defensive game, as Westburg is able to play a little deeper than traditional shortstop positioning, because his arm is there to help him out. Grade: 60

Run: He's a plus runner now, showing consistently sub-4.2 seconds times in his final year at Mississippi State, and the speed plays on the base paths quite well. With increased physicality likely comes diminished long speed, but it's still within reason that Westburg will be a solid-average runner long term. Grade: 50

Overall: Westburg's collection of tools and physicality is enticing, and with the development his hit tool has seen over his amateur career, it's easy to see why he was a top 40 pick. The hit tool will need to continue coming along in order for Westburg to be an everyday player, but if it does, Westburg could be a pretty high-end producer with a power/speed/defense profile at a premium position. The likelihood is that of a solid-ish regular with swing-and-miss concerns, who may have to move to third, however in a more limited role.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Platoon or Utility
Risk: Moderate

Heston Kjerstad - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 BAL OF 5 50

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 45 60 60 50 40

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft - Round 1
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Appears as listed, lean and strong with broad shoulders and tapered build. Physicality speaks to strength, has done a good job through amateur career of continually developing strength while retaining athleticism and body type. Some, albeit minor, projection remains on the frame.

Hit: Kjerstad's swing starts with a notably large leg lift trigger, a move that is mostly difficult to repeat for hitters but Kjerstad has the balance, bat speed, and innate timing ability to make it work. He gets the front foot down on time and consistently generates leverage, hitting against a firm front side and showing the timing skills to get to both plus velocity as well as slower off-speed stuff by buying time with his hands. It's above-average bat speed with some stiffness to path, and he's susceptible to breakers beneath the strike zone. The approach is strong and Kjerstad will take his walks, but the overall hit tool projection just in terms of barrel consistency likely falls short of average long term. Grade: 45

Power: The raw power here is plus-plus and that left-handed power is the carrying tool to Kjerstad's profile. He's able to drive the ball out to all parts of the ballpark, working gaps with ease and able to 2-strike wrist-flick balls into gaps. The best power is pull-side, with tremendous lofted shots. Prior to COVID, Kjerstad's power frequency was coming on even more, albeit in a small sample size. The hit tool likely ends up limiting the power from playing as a 70 grade tool in-game, but the medium outcome here seems to be a 25-30 HR/year player, earning a plus game-power grade. Grade: 60

Field: Kjerstad is a solid-average athlete for his size but is defensively limited to an outfield corner or even 1st base down the line, where he played sparingly at Arkansas. He played some right field as a junior in a limited season, where his overall athleticism and arm strength seem to play well together, though most scouts view Kjerstad as a left field/first baseman long term, which does give him some versatility. Grade: 60

Arm: The raw arm strength grades out as above-average, with good arm speed and a clean, whippy stroke that produces good velocity out of the hand and the ability to keep throws on a line while carrying 3B or the plate from RF. There's some inconsistencies in terms of the release time and Kjerstad is still developing in terms of his overall consistency, but a solid-average arm long term likely exists. Grade: 50

Run: Kjerstad is a below-average runner down the line, consistently around 4.4 seconds from the left side of the plate, but he's definitely more of a long runner than a short area quickness guy. One his strides get going he can cover a solid amount of ground, and the overall speed shouldn't be a deficit to his team either in the outfield or on the bases, outside of the 90 feet between the plate and 1st base. Grade: 40

Overall: Kjerstad surprised a lot of the draft community by going 2nd overall to the Orioles, as they played the long game and spread their bonus pool around. The strength of his left-handed bat is the calling card, as Kjerstad should have enough of a hit tool for his prodigious power to play in an impactful way, and he looks the part of an everyday player at the big league level who should get on base and hit for power.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: Moderate

Casey Martin - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 PHI SS 29 35

Grades Update: Feb 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
35 30 30 45 50 50 70

Feb 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 5-11
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Round 3
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Martin is a slender, athletically-built player with high-end athleticism and some projection remaining on his body, though the speed is such an important part of his game it's hard to know how much projection is advisable.

Hit: The biggest issue of Martin's profile, he struggles with swing-and-miss consistently and has struck out quite a bit through his amateur career even in spite of the gaudy underclassmen numbers. It's a swing that gets too uphill, dipping his back shoulder and take him off plane, creating a very small hard contact zone which he doesn't have the barrel adjustability skills to get to consistently. Grade: 30

Power: Martin has above-average raw power in spite of his slender frame, capable of driving the ball out of any park pull-side. The problems come in when that's the entirety of his approach-hitting the ball in the air pull-side. The power projects, as he's likely to add some strength to his frame, but the hit tool concerns will keep him from really taking advantage of it. Grade: 45

Field: Martin plays shortstop presently and has the athleticism, range, footwork, and arm strength to make it work there, though his hands and internal timer are both below average. The game very clearly speeds up on him defensively and he's equally likely to make a spectacular play as he is to kick a routine grounder right at him. The tools are there, but he's a better fit in CF in this scout's view. Grade: 50

Arm: The raw arm strength is above average, though Martin struggles a bit with consistency in terms of his release as well as the internal timer. The arm will play from wherever he's positioned, and he's had experience at 3B as well as SS, though again, center field seems like the most likely outcome here. Grade: 50

Run: Martin's best tool, he's a real burner who can turn in elite times down the line and consistently clocks 70 times from the right side of the plate. It's speed that is impactful on the bases, as he's a true stolen base threat, and that speed is one of the reasons why some scouts prefer him in CF vs. shortstop. Grade: 70

Overall: Martin has intriguing power/speed upside with middle field defensive projection, and the 99th percentile outcome here might be a 20/20 guy at the highest level with good defense in CF. The most likely outcome is something similar to Brock Deatherage, whose contact inconsistencies cause his power/speed tools to play way, way down.

OFP: 35
Role: 30 - Up/Down Emergency Depth
Risk: High

Jackson Rutledge - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 WAS RHP 1 55

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Cnt/Cmd
55 60 70 55 60 45 50/45

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-8
Weight: 250 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Round 1
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Physical monster, massive and strong and physical. Minimal projection remaining if any but a big league body at present.

Delivery & Mechanics: Low-maintenance delivery with simplicity throughout operation, getting over his front side with repeatability and tempo, staying linear throughout as well. The arm stroke stays inline through the back and he's got a high front side coming through which aids in deception. Extremely short arm action is notable.

Fastball: Pitch touched triple digits as an amateur and continues to flirt with that as a professional. Can hold mid-90's deep into starts and has average life on the pitch in general. Pitch could encroach on elite in short bursts, but plays plus-plus in starter role. Grade: 70

Curveball: Behind the slider but not by all that much, thrown in the low 80's with more downward bite, has confidence in pitch and is adept at landing it over outer edge for called strikes vs. hitters of either handedness, have seen it plus at times. Grade: 55

Slider: Best secondary, thrown firmly in the mid-upper 80's with devastating bite, tunneled well off of fastball with plus, late tilt, confident throwing it in any count as chase pitch, swing-and-miss offering that should miss bats at highest level. Grade: 60

Changeup: In the "usable" range right now but Rutledge has shown feel for the pitch, generally in mid-upper 80's, average fade with below average present command of the pitch, end of arsenal right now but could be enough to keep lefties honest. Grade: 45

Control and Command: Rutledge can throw strikes and a high number of walks aren't really the worry here, but his command is in the fringe-average range right now and given his present size and limited projection, one wonders where the command projection is. Control: 50 | Command: 45

Overall: Pretty overwhelming package of stuff with as many as 4 pitches that can be effective at the highest level in a starter role, 3 of which could be plus or better. Shouldn't have an issue missing bats, issue may be command limiting his effectiveness as a starter and pushing him to bullpen.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - #3 SP
Risk: High

Trevor Hauver - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 Mid TEX 2B/OF 16 40
2021 NYY 2B/OF 13 45

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 50 50 45 45 40

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 3
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Well-built and physical frame, strength throughout with limited projection remaining and fringe-to-average athleticism.

Hit: The carrying tool, Hauver mashed his last two seasons at Arizona State and is well-regarded for his hit tool. He creates good leverage and employs a very good approach, with above-average bat speed and quality barrel control highlighting the tool. There's a good chance that he hits his way to the big leagues, though the projection here is not overly high end. Grade: 50

Power: Hauver's strength and above-average bat speed give him quality raw power, especially to the pullside, and he's shown the ability to get to that power in game given the consistency of his barrel accuracy and ability to work counts into his favor. Good upside exists here both in doubles and homers. Grade: 50

Field: Hauver was announced as a second baseman and played shortstop in high school, but played mostly corner outfield during his time at Arizona State, and left field is still the projection overall here, though some believe he can handle a corner infield spot enough to play there sporadically. His speed and arm likely limit him to left field or 2B/1B. Grade: 45

Arm: It's a fringe-average arm in terms of raw strength, with the playability of that tool dependent on where he's positioned defensively. He's best fit for left field or 2B/1B on the infield. Grade: 45

Run: Hauver is a decent athlete who moves solidly when underway and is speed and athletic enough to avoid being a baserunning liability, but his zero steals at Arizona State in his career and fringe-average times down the line limit the actual value his ability provides. Grade: 40

Overall: Bat-driven profile with big performance at Arizona State and the offensive upside of a major leaguer, though his defensive shortcomings likely limit him to something of a bat-first super utility role.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Bench or Platoon
Risk: Moderate

Josh H. Smith - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 Mid TEX SS 7 45
2021 NYY SS 11 45

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 55 50 55 50 50

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 23 yr
Height: 5-10
Weight: 172 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round 2
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Slender, compact build with wiry strength throughout and some stockiness to lower half, solid-average athleticism with some projection remaining on frame.

Hit: Smith was drafted highly on the strength of his hit tool and collectively quality other tools, but the bat is still carrying tool. It's a clean, direct stroke from the left side of the plate that handles velocity well and carries very good lag through the zone, with above-average bat speed, good plate coverage, and a quality approach strengthening the overall tool. Grade: 55

Power: Somewhat in spite of his smaller frame, Smith has solid-average raw power with the ability to loft the ball out pull-side and pepper the gaps to all fields. There's a good amount of extra base upside here along with potentially average home run power, but realistically he'll settle into the 12-15 HR range annually with plenty of doubles. Grade: 50

Field: Smith played a very solid shortstop for LSU and has the tools to potentially play there long term, though most evaluators feel that his best defensive home long term to be second base. His hands, feet, and athleticism all grade out above-average defensively, but he does not come with that explosive range or arm strength that high-level shortstops generally have. He should be a solid-to-above average second baseman. Grade: 55

Arm: It's solid-average raw arm strength that on the whole grades in the 50-55 range given the quickness of release, his internal timer, and the consistent accuracy he displays. This is likely something along the lines of a 45-50 tool from shortstop and a 50-55 tool from second base, so for the sake of projection we'll stick with a solid 5. Grade: 50

Run: Smith is a solid-average athlete who moves well regardless of where he is, but isn't explosively twitchy or a burner in the speed sense. He's clocked plus times down the line in the past but generally is a 50-55 runner whose speed plays up on the basepaths in part due to his excellent instincts, and he should be a double-digit stolen base threat. Grade: 50

Overall: Smith is a steady, high-floor college infielder who performed in the best amateur league in the sport with the bat and is a good bet to hit at the big league level. He's got the upside of a solid starter or very good bench player, who could conceivably play all over the infield in a super utility role. The bat and defensive steadiness should carry him and both help alleviate risk.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Bench or Platoon
Risk: Moderate

Jesse Franklin - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 ATL OF/1B 14 45

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 45 55 55 45 50

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-1
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 3
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Strong, athletic player with broad shoulders and obvious build throughout his trunk and lower half. Good combination of physical strength and athleticism throughout.

Hit: Franklin hit in spurts throughout his college career, performing extremely well for Michigan as well as on the Cape in 2018 before showing more power but less barrel accuracy through both stops in 2019. The swing can get long, potentially as a result of how wide he gets in his stance, and the hands can get a little tight through his stroke as well, but he's shown consistently ability to barrel baseballs with strength to all fields. There's variance here depending on how much Franklin wants to tap into his power. Grade: 45

Power: His power is likely his loudest tool at present, with excellent strength and above-average bat speed combining to give him plus raw power from the left side of the plate. He can drive the ball out to all fields and really launch it pull-side, and he's shown progression through his amateur career of getting the barrel in better spots to launch while retaining plate coverage. Grade: 55

Field: Franklin played first-base as a freshman following shoulder surgery on his throwing arm, but returned to center field in 2019 once fully healthy. He's more athletic than his physical, thick build might indicate, with a quick first step and good speed once underway, and his routes consistently improved throughout the course of his sophomore season. There's a chance for him to potentially be fringe in center field, but realistically he'll be a defensive asset in a corner. Grade: 55

Arm: Franklin had labrum surgery on his throwing shoulder prior to his freshman season at Michigan, and while he's been fully recovered from that injury for some time, his arm strength is still mostly in the 40-45 range. He shows good accuracy along with a quick release, but the arm will keep him in left field if he proves unable to play center long-term. Grade: 45

Run: Franklin has a quick first step and can move well for a player of his build, turning in times in the 55-60 range at times during his sophomore campaign. On the whole he's a half-tick above average as a runner right now, with solid-average projection long term as he matures. Grade: 50

Overall: Franklin brings a solid set of tools to the table along with a performance pedigree and universally-praised makeup, though the overall profile likely falls a little short of a solid-average regular. He should be able to hit 15-20 home runs a year while playing a solid left field, and should see some average years at his peak in terms of WAR output.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Utility / Platoon
Risk: Moderate

Braden Shewmake - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 ATL SS/2B 5 50

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 55 50 50 50 50

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round 1
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Shewmake is a long-limbed, leanly-built middle infielder with an athletic look and some projection remaining, though he is more narrowly-built through his waist and shoulders.

Hit: Shewmake performed loudly right out of the gate in 2019, mashing through High-A en route to a promotion to AA to finish out the season. There's always been excellent feel for the barrel in his left-handed stroke, loose and whippy with plate coverage and bat speed, and he's got the ability to find barrels consistently to all fields. Grade: 55

Power: Shewmake is more leanly-built but does have somewhat surprising strength in his hands and swing, with above-average raw power pull-side at present and in the solid-average range everywhere else. He generates lots of leverage and the swing is lofted, and given his propensity to find barrels and burgeoning strength, it's certainly within reason to project him out to solid-average game power long-term. Grade: 50

Field: A shortstop by trade, Shewmake is definitely longer-bodied than most middle infielders, and his above-average athleticism and instincts allow for his more limited defensive actions to be playable. He's got a chance to stick at shortstop long term, though most evaluators see him as more of an offensive-minded second baseman or super utility defender who can add at least some value defensively. Grade: 50

Arm: Another solid yet unspectacular tool in Shewmake's arsenal, his arm strength grades out as solid average and is seen as good enough to allow him to play shortstop, aided by his instinctual timer and quick release, though it's not a weapon that will bail him out on tough plays. The arm should be enough to allow him to see time elsewhere if needed, pretty much anywhere on the diamond. Grade: 50

Run: An average runner for the most part, Shewmake consistently clocked times around 4.15-4.20 seconds down the line in his draft year at Texas A&M and holds in that range presently, with some above-average times sprinkled in. Grade: 50

Overall: Hit-tool first performer with defensive versatility and well-regarded makeup along with some power projection make Shewmake a solid bet to be an everyday player, though he may not have an everyday defensive home. Solid enough at shortstop with the ability to move around and the athleticism/baseball IQ to bring value in several spots.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: Moderate

Tekoah Roby - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 TEX RHP 21 45

Grades Update: Mar 2021
OFP Role FB CB CH Cont/Cmd
45 40 55 50 45 55/50

Mar 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-1
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Round 3
RuleV: 2024

Physical Description: Roby has an athletic, solid build that is neither large or small for a starting pitching prospect, with leanness throughout that projects well in terms of added strength. He is a solid-average athlete.

Delivery & Mechanics: Roby has solid athleticism and puts it on display on the mound, with good lower half directionality and incorporation, a loose arm stroke with above-average arm speed and a clean path, as well as good present repeatability. He generates good extension over his front side and projects well given the existing traits.

Fastball: Generally in the 90-94 mph range for most of the summer/fall circuit and into the COVID-shortened spring, with reports of early-start peaks higher than that. The pitch features good sink down in the zone and plays at the letters as well given his extension. The above-average arm speed and physical projection allow us to project on the velocity somewhat, and it's not unrealistic to expect Roby to be a 92-96 mph guy. Grade: 55

Curveball: Roby's best secondary at present, thrown in the mid-upper 70's with above-average traits and bite at times, featuring good depth and late break on an 11/5 plane at it's best. He will lose it low and cast it at times, and he occasionally leaves it up when he doesn't finish spinning it out front, but the ingredients are there for a consistently above-average pitch for him long term. Grade: 50

Changeup: His 3rd pitch, per usual for most high school pitchers, he's shown some flashes of a solid-average changeup but it's comfortably more of a below-average offering at present. He has some feel for turning it over and generating fade while maintaining his arm speed, but will occasionally let his slot drift and turn the pitch very flat. With repetitions, an average pitch exists here long term. Grade: 45

Control and Command: Roby has been consistently around the plate in his prep career and had the "strike thrower" tag on the circuit, thanks in part to how well he repeats his delivery at present. There's some room for improvement in the command department, as there is for all teenage arms, but the upside of starter-level control/command does exist here. Control: 55 | Command: 50

Overall: Roby has some of the same qualities that made current LSU starter Landon Marceaux so attractive on the circuit several years ago, given his size, some projection, repeatability, and strikes. He's not a big upside guy, in my view, though the ingredients of a backend starter do exist here-and he's likely got a little bit higher floor than the average prep arm given his strikes also.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Long Reliever
Risk: High

Tyler Soderstrom - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 OAK C 2 50

Grades Update: Feb 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
50 50 60 55 45 60 50

Feb 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela


Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-2
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2020 Round 1
RuleV: 2024

Physical Description: Strong, athletic, well put together build with good strength and high-level athleticism for the catching position. Plus body overall.

Hit: Soderstrom is advanced in his approach and his swing plan, with plus bat speed, a clean path, and overall one of the highest-profile hit tools of the 2020 prep draft class. He covers the plate well and is consistently on time, with hard contact in all directions vs. high quality pitching, including lefthanded arms. There's a ton of upside with the bat here overall. Grade: 60

Power: As he's come into more strength the power has shown up more and more, and the raw power is likely plus at the time of this writing. The swing is more geared for gap-to-gap power and he can turn and burn pull-side, though it's unlikely that he's ever a 30+ home run guy. The realistic outcome is good average/good OBP with 30+ doubles and 20+ home runs. Grade: 55

Field: Soderstrom is a little unrefined behind the plate, yet he's done a nice job getting more athletic and explosive in his lower half but is still behind his offensive skills as a defender. He receives and throws well but lags behind in terms of blocking and other particulars. His athleticism and other tools allow for potential projection at 3rd base or in a corner outfield spot. It's potentially a very versatile defensive profile, but one unlikely to be above average. Grade: 45

Arm: Plus tool, plays behind the plate, from the outfield, and across the infield aiding in the aforementioned potential defensive versatility. True carry with zip out of the hand and a quick release. Grade: 60

Run: Soderstrom has shown above-average speed in his amateur days, though as primarily a catcher it's likely that speed ticks down over time. Regardless, he'll likely be one of the fastest, most athletic catchers in the big leagues should that be his long term defensive home. Grade: 50

Overall: Offense-first profile with high-level hitting tools and some defensive versatility. Should be an above-average big league bat with below-to-fringe average defense in several spots. Regardless, should hit and hit in a big way.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: High

Drew Romo - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 COL C 5 45

Grades Update: Nov 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 40 50 60 60 40

Nov 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-1
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits/Throws: S/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft - Round 1C
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Strong, athletic build on medium-large frame; strong throughout with good bulk while remaining athletic. Body still will likely change and reshape to a degree, close to physically maxed.

Hit: A switch-hitter who has shown the ability to impact the ball from both sides, Romo's swing, bat speed, and raw power all shine brightest from the left side of the plate. There's some barrel adjustability there at present along with good rhythm and tempo, hit tool likely falls short of average projection long term. Should be able to hit from both sides at passable level to dissuade platoon impact, though the likely best outcome is strong side platoon bat. Grade: 40

Power: Has the makings of plus raw power long term, strength already shows out in BP, can loft the ball out to the pull side from either side of the plate, shows more overall and whole-field power projection from the left side. Creates leverage and allows strength to play, overall hit tool projection does limit some of the game power upside, should still be capable of driving 15-18 home runs annually, raw power grade is higher than game power here. Grade: 50

Field: Romo's calling card throughout his prep days and into the draft was definitely the defense, viewed as assuredly the best prep catcher in the class. Very athletic behind the plate with the requisite lateral agility to be an asset, explosive in lower half both laterally and out of crouch to throw down. Feel for receiving and blocking stands out, potential high-end defender behind the plate. Grade: 60

Arm: Romo's raw arm strength is easily plus, with explosive online carry out of the hand and the athleticism/timing skills to match the plus arm strength with a lightning-quick release, allowing him to control running games and shut them down, essentially. With consistent pop times south of 2.00 seconds in multiple looks across multiple events, it's easy to envision Romo having one of the better catch-and-throw games in baseball long term. Grade: 60

Run: Presently below average runner with flashes of fringe-average times down the line, speed will not be a part of Romo's game long term, though he's athletic and heady enough to take extra bases when possible and won't be amongst the proverbial "base cloggers". Grade: 40

Overall: Defense-first backstop with moderate offensive upside, Romo's bat profiles enough to project him as a first division regular, though it'll likely hold him back from being an All Star-caliber player. Something along the lines of peak James McCann seems like his high end outcome, with the catch-and-throw standing out amongst the rest of the profile, though Romo does have more offensive ceiling long term. Potentially very strong defender at premium spot with enough offense to keep him out of the 9-hole. Will need to prove he can hit professional pitching before we're willing to slap an everyday role on Romo.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below Average Player - Bench/Platoon
Risk: Extreme

Zac Veen - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 COL OF 1 55

Grades Update: Nov 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
55 60 50 60 50 60 45

Nov 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft - Round 1
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Long, tapered build with seemingly limitless physical projection. Plus body with projection for plus-plus, broad shoulders with lean muscle throughout, chance to be a physical monster when he fills out fully.

Hit: Veen employs a loose, fluid stroke that generates plus bat speed with lots of natural loft, creating something of a picture-perfect, "pretty" left handed swing. It's a smooth hand load with a hint of a bar, and while there is some length through the launching mechanism, Veen's bat speed has allowed him to overcome that to date in his career. He employs a whole-field approach with a better, more mature eye at the plate than most of his peers. Unlikely to be a plus hit tool long term, but between OBP and power output, has the makings of a plus bat overall. Grade: 50

Power: Pretty special power projection given the projection on his body as well as the bat speed and present strength. Already shows plus raw power to the pull side, can loft balls a very long way in that direction as well as go out the opposite way. Swing is ideally built for power, matches planes well and can create lots of backspin, with continued physical development and strength gains, the upside of plus-plus raw power exists, with the game power ending up around plus. Could be a 30+ HR annually type of bat. Grade: 60

Field: Profiles well in right field long term given physical projection, athletic enough to be sent out in center field and see if he can stay there. Has solid instincts and reads off the bat, above-average runner once underway, eventual physicality likely forces him in OF corner, has the long-term athleticism and arm strength to be a solid right fielder. Grade: 50

Arm: Smooth arm stroke, looseness to it with quick release, above-average raw arm strength at present, has projection to the tool, some operational cleanup as well as the strength projection on the body as a whole could lead to a plus arm long term. Grade: 60

Run: Presently a solid-average runner who moves better once his long legs are underway, it's likely that Veen will slow down a half/full tick or so as his body continues to fill out. He won't be an athletic liability in the outfield or on the base paths, but it's unlikely that he'll consistently turn in average or better times down the line by the time he reaches the highest level. Grade: 45

Overall: Veen's offensive upside is vast, and in a perfect world he could be a 12+ type of bat if you combine the hit and power grades, though the most likely outcome is that of an average hit/plus power corner outfielder. The power upside combined with his willingness and ability to draw walks gives him an obviously enticing long term profile, and he could end up hitting 30+ home runs annually. Projects as a solid defender in an OF corner, but most of his value is tied to the bat.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - Above Average Regular/Occasional All-Star
Risk: High

Jake Vogel - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 LAD OF 15 45

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
45 40 50 40 55 55 70

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 19 yr
Height: 5-11
Weight: 165 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft - Round 3
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Slender, twitchy build with lean musculature and some physical projection remaining. Fast-twitch, athletic build; built compactly with good strength for his size overall.

Hit: Vogel employs a very simple, very direct stroke that is built more for contact than power, but he does have some punch behind the swing. It's balanced and repeatable and able to cover the plate, and Vogel shows the requisite bat speed to project his ability to get to velocity, and the overall feel for the barrel does stand out. Whole-field approach who will maximize contact with his speed, can easily expect batting average and OBP to be buoyed by infield hits. Grade: 50

Power: He's undersized and lithely built with some punch to the swing but not a ton of HR power at present, can dip and rip and hit the ball out to the pull-side at times, power numbers will be aided by speed turning doubles into triples and the like, top/bottom of the order guy, won't hit a ton of home runs, swing plane is more linear and geared for sprayed liners, should still be a .400+ SLG% guy and able to drive out 10ish bombs a year. Grade: 40

Field: Plays center field, speed allows him to cover perhaps the most ground of anyone in the '20 prep class, has feel for routes and positioning, definitely projects to stay in center long term, speed should allow him to be a defensive asset, reads ball off the bat well and has lightning-quick first step. Grade: 55

Arm: Solid tool, quick release with real velocity and carry, was clocked up to 95 mph from the OF at Perfect Game National, gets the most out of arm, clean release, accuracy continues to evolve, should be a quality tool long term that aids his defensive game. Grade: 55

Run: The best tool of the arsenal, has clocked 80 times repeatedly down the line as well as in the 60 yard dash, extremely fast first step and extremely fast up to top gear, speed will win him base hits and extra bases offensively, have seen sub-4 second digs from the right side of the plate, times average out in the 4.1 seconds range. Grade: 70

Overall: Speed-first center fielder with hit tool projection. Lacks power and power projection but won't be a punch-less bat, can project to play everyday on strength of total profile including speed and defense, likely outcome is 4th outfielder but has a chance to play everyday if bat comes along well.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below Average Player - Platoon/Bench
Risk: High

Kendall Williams - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 LAD RHP 10 50

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Cnt/Cmd
50 50 55 55 50 50 55/50

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 20 yr
Height: 6-6
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Draft - Round 2, TOR
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Tall, long, lean righthander with high waist and excellent physical projection. Broad shoulders with long limbs, narrower waist, has done a nice job adding strength and bulk to frame since prep days, good strength present, does project more moving forward.

Delivery & Mechanics: Williams has a vertical-slot release that he used as an amateur mostly to leverage the ball down in the zone, likely he's being instructed to pitch up at this point given the release. Inline stride downhill with some effort over the front side, stays balanced through delivery, arm stroke stays inline and grades as average, overall solid operation.

Fastball: Williams topped out at 94-95 mph during his amateur days and the latest info has him roughly in the same range, mostly in the 90-93 mph range during a given outing with higher peaks. The pitch is mostly straight but has good spin and the Dodgers are sure to maximize these traits in his development. Given the arm speed and physical projection, some velocity projection exists but he's likely to be an above-average FB guy rather than plus. Grade: 55

Curveball: Was his preferred pitch as a prep, a true overhand 12/6 curveball with bite and depth, has some inconsistencies spinning the pitch at times, best ones showed plus as an amateur, thrown out of fastball tunnel, can land it for strikes or bury it as a chase pitch, quality offering with an above-average future, thrown in the 76-79 mph range mostly. Grade: 55

Slider: Newest part of arsenal, taught himself to throw it in bullpens leading up to NHSI appearance as a prep, will dip the slot to get to the side of it at times but has feel for the pitch, good late tilt when thrown properly, with reps could see a solid-average future. Thrown in the 81-84 mph range. Grade: 50

Changeup: A surprisingly advanced pitch to some evaluators during his draft spring, Williams has the feel for turning over the pitch and generating above-average action. Prefers to throw it to left handed hitters, will choke it and bury it at times, overall consistency of the pitch needs work but flashes 55 with some regularity on the pitch. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Williams throws a good number of strikes and grades out as having average control at present, though his command is loose in the zone and he's susceptible to catching too much plate at present, and doesn't quite have the power arsenal to get away with it. The late effort in the delivery and good-not-great athleticism give the command projection some limitations, but there's a solid chance of him reaching average command. Control: 55 | Command: 50

Overall: Four-pitch starter with strikes who should have quality arsenal of above-average pitches, though none are overly likely to end up plus. Best chance for plus pitch is likely to be his curveball. Starter traits with upside of good strikes, may struggle to miss bats at high clip but should be able to turn lineups over and miss barrels. Solid stuff, somewhat limited upside.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - #4 - #5 Backend SP
Risk: High

Bobby Miller - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 LAD RHP 1 55

Grades Update: Dec 2020
OFP Role FB CB SL CH Cnt/Cmd
55 60 70 45 55 50 55/45

Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-5
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft - Round 1
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: XL frame with long, broad build that encompasses both high end athleticism and physical strength.

Delivery & Mechanics: Short rocker step back to align with rubber, good hip hinge over back side to engage core and lower half, gates front hip some, gets into good directional pattern, length to arm stroke through the back, gets offline, is able to time up longer stroke, some effort to operation with more control than command. Generates lower release height due to extension.

Fastball: Dominant pitch at times, was nearing triple digits at Louisville. Regularly sat mid-90s and reached back for more, holds velocity deep into games, above-average arm-side life, pitch can get heavy when down in zone. Average raw spin rates, can throw pitch for strikes consistently, will need to avoid the middle of the plate even with plus velocity. Falls short of elite fastball due to average traits, likely a 70 fastball in starter role. Could see velocity tick up in bullpen role to maintain 70 grade. Grade: 70

Curveball: Probably Miller's 4th best pitch right now, thrown mostly in the low-80s and not very frequently; can throw for strikes vs. hitters of either handedness. Mostly on the 11/5 plane, lacks hammer bite and depth; missed bats at collegiate level but will need to improve to do so in pro ball. Average spin rate, could see an average future but likely falls shy of that. Solid change-of-pace and strike-stealer pitch. Grade: 45

Slider: Best secondary offering to my eyes. Thrown firmly in mid-upper 80s, gets closer to a cutter than a true tilting slider at times, plays well off fastball movement on the horizontal axis. Can get under hands of left handed hitters, runs it away from righties, has control of the pitch. Has touched as high as 90 mph. Unlikely to play as an overwhelming bat-misser at highest level, but quality projection. Grade: 55

Changeup: Miller's changeup is something of a hybrid between a true changeup and a splitter, earning that ever-popular "split-change" designation. It's a solid pitch for him, thrown in the mid-80s with dive, though the spin isn't as low as one would expect given the intent and action of it. Can throw it at the bottom of the zone and get whiffs overtop of it, better to lefties at present than righties. Solid third pitch. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Miller went from a prep arm with no clue how to throw strikes to a pretty solid zone-pounder at Louisville, averaging 3.6 BB/9 in his college career. It's more control than command, with Miller able to pound the strike zone but limited in his ability to move the ball around the zone. His athleticism and aptitude speak to some projection here, but the violence in his delivery likely leaves him shy of average command long term. Control: 55 | Command: 45

Overall: Miller's size, athleticism, arm talent, and overall stuff, along with a performance pedigree at one of college baseball's best programs, lead him to being selected in the first round. Some concerns over his command lead to reliever questions, which do remain, but this evaluator felt that Miller was a little undervalued by the industry. With the Dodgers player dev system, it's realistic to expect them to maximize Miller's value and we could see a mid-rotation starter or dynamic closer here.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - #3 SP
Risk: Moderate

Werner Blakely - Scouting Report


Rank History
Year Team Position Team Rank OFP
2021 LAA SS 30 35

Grades Update: Jan 2021
OFP Role Hit Power Field Arm Run
35 30 30 45 60 50 50

Jan 2021 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 19 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 4
RuleV: 2024

Physical Description: Long, lean, projectable build with wiry muscle and tons of room for growth. High-waisted with athletic look. Plus-plus body.

Hit: Blakely has above-average bat speed and over time has done an excellent job refining his swing path from a pure uppercut stroke to more of an on-plane, smooth path. He's unrefined in terms of identifying offspeed stuff as well as his overall control of the strike zone, and swing-and-miss is currently abundant in his game. Long, long ways to go in terms of developing the hit tool but has components. Grade: 30

Power: The bat speed and physical projection allow for substantial power projection. Blakely is already capable of driving the ball pull-side out of the yard and has shown some feel for using the backside gap. The raw power projection here is easily plus, though projecting game power given the limited hit tool projection is more difficult. Grade: 45

Field: Hit-and-miss currently, as Blakely has the actions and athleticism to be a standout defender but isn't there in terms of consistency yet. Flashes plus hands and feet, moves extremely well and has plus range, still working on the pitch-to-pitch consistency that the position requires, but has big upside as a defender. Grade: 50

Arm: Plus raw arm strength, when he lets it rip it's impressive with zip and carry, inconsistencies plague this tool as well, internal clock is unrefined yet, accuracy and consistency also unrefined, still the makings of a plus tool here potentially. Grade: 50

Run: Plus runner, moves extremely well, quick out of the box and down the line, second gear is impressive, can tell athleticism in the infield as well. Grade: 60

Overall: Blakely is potentially as high-risk/high-reward a player as there was in the 2020 draft. As a prep bat with wild swings between good and bad throughout his toolset, any outcome is possible. He could repeat rookie ball repeatedly and never see levels above that, or he could be an above-average big leaguer with loud power/defense/athleticism tools.

OFP: 35
Role: 30 - Up/Down Emergency Depth
Risk: Extreme