Draft Chat - Rounds 1-5

[bigbird]

Talk about picks 1-5 here

[bernie132000]

Stanford guy. how hard does he throw. Never hit above 88 in video on MLB. Very surprising if that is the case.

[rolliefingers]

Has it started?

[snatch311]

Ya, its on 6th overall.

[Sonny76]

Tigers just took Miller

[twoBshorty]

Going faster than I thought.

Andrew Miller just went at 6.

[snatch311]

Will we pick Kershaw?

[Oriolesfan4life]

yeah now only if the NFL draft was this quick.

[Skywalker76]

Dodgers took Kershaw.

[GeorgiaBird]

Nope. The Dodgers did.

[snatch311]

never mind. Looks like Rowell.

[Oriolesfan4life]

hopefully Stubbs is still there.

[terpedO]

Kershaw taken by Dodgers, Stubbs by the Reds, Rowell mite be the pick.

[GeorgiaBird]

Rowell it is.

[Sonny76]

O's get Rowell!

[Skywalker76]

Reds took Stubs, so I guess we are taking Rowell.

Yup. just took Rowell.

[AgentOrange]

This and Opening Day are the two days I get most excited about during the season...

[snatch311]

PHEW. Dodged a bullet. Glad we didn't have a chance to get Stubbs.

[twoBshorty]

Nope. Stubbs gone.

[bernie132000]

hopefully Stubbs is still there.
Nope, Cinci.

[snatch311]

You guys happy we got Rowell over Drabek and Linnecum?

[rolliefingers]

Rowell it is.Cool. Not much of a surprise, he seems like a real stud. Wonder where Lincecum goes...

[Maverick2143]

Lincecum goes to Giants.

[Sport Foo]

This is rolling along...Supplemental pick for Ryan is our next at 32nd

[bernie132000]

Going extremely fast. Surprised at the speed.

[rolliefingers]

Drabek still on the board...

[Wingman]

Must be my firewall at work... I can't get this live anywhere.

[rolliefingers]

Nevermind...Phillies at 18.

[Maverick2143]

Drabek still on the board...

Not anymore :( Philly picked him.

[rolliefingers]

Must be my firewall at work... I can't get this live anywhere.MLB.com...look for "Draft Tracker"

[Maverick2143]

hmmm. Bard is still on the board as well.

[Sonny76]

I wonder how far Daniel Bard will fall????

[Mackus]

What pick are we on now?

Can someone update a master list or something for the people who can't get DraftTracker working (me!).

[Wingman]

MLB.com...look for "Draft Tracker"

I've tried... all I get is a blank screen... Thanks anyways.

[rolliefingers]

Anyone else humbled by the fact that a lot of these guys were born in 1988?

I sure am.

[rolliefingers]

What pick are we on now?

Can someone update a master list or something for the people who can't get DraftTracker working (me!).Braves due up at 24 (!)

[Maverick2143]

Anyone else humbled by the fact that a lot of these guys were born in 1988?

I sure am.

No Kidding... I am starting to feel old with my 1983 birthday.

[Skywalker76]

Problem is you can't copy and paste the names. But now it's #25 the Angels.

Bard still available.

[Baltimoron]

What pick are we on now?

Can someone update a master list or something for the people who can't get DraftTracker working (me!).


Espn draft page (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/draft2006/index)

1. Royals Luke Hochevar, RHP
Fort Worth (Ind.)
2. Rockies Greg Reynolds, RHP
Stanford
3. Devil Rays Evan Longoria, 3B
Long Beach State
4. Pirates Brad Lincoln, RHP
Houston
5. Mariners Brandon Morrow, RHP
California
6. Tigers Andrew Miller, LHP
North Carolina
7. Dodgers Clayton Kershaw, LHP
H.S. (Dallas)
8. Reds Drew Stubbs, OF
Texas
9. Orioles Bill Rowell, 3B
H.S. (Sewell, N.J.)
10. Giants Tim Lincecum, RHP
Washington
11. Diamondbacks Max Scherzer
RHP, Missouri
12. Rangers Kasey Kiker, LHP
H.S. (Phenix City, Ala.)
13. Cubs Tyler Colvin, LF
Clemson
14. Blue Jays Travis Snider, OF
H.S. (Everett, Wash.)
15. Nationals Chris Marrero, 3b
H.S. (Miami)
16. Brewers Jeremy Jeffress, RHP
H.S. (South Boston, Va.)
17. Padres Matt Antonelli, 3B
Wake Forest
18. Phillies
(for Billy Wagner) Kyle Drabek, RHP/SS
H.S. (The Woodlands, Texas)
19. Marlins Brett Sinkbeil, RHP
Missouri State
20. Twins Chris Parmelee, OF/1B
H.S. (Chino Hills, Calif.)
21. Yankees
(for Tom Gordon) Ian Kennedy, RHP
Southern California
22. Nationals
(for Esteban Loaiza) Colton Willems, RHP
H.S. (Fort Pierce, Fla.)
23. Astros Max Sapp, C
H.S. (Windermere, Fla.)
24. Braves
25. Angels
(for Paul Byrd)
26. Dodgers
27. Red Sox
28. Red Sox
(for Johnny Damon)
29. White Sox
30. Cardinals

Sandwich Picks
PK TEAM PLAYER
31. Dodgers
(for Jeff Weaver)
32. Orioles
(for B.J. Ryan)
33. Giants
(for Scott Eyre)
34. Diamondbacks
(for Tim Worrell)
35. Padres
(for Ramon Hernandez)
36. Marlins
(for A.J. Burnett)
37. Phillies
(for Billy Wagner)
38. Braves
(for Kyle Farnsworth)
39. Indians
(for Bob Howry)
40. Red Sox
(for Johnny Damon)
41. Yankees
(for Tom Gordon)
42. Cardinals
(for Matt Morris)
43. Braves
(for Rafael Furcal)
44. Red Sox
(for Bill Mueller)

[rolliefingers]

Beat me to it.

[Maverick2143]

Anyone think we could get Bard at 32?

[bernie132000]

I'd take Bard at 32 if he is there.

[Skywalker76]

Angels took another C with Conger...

[bernie132000]

28 now, Bard still there.

[rolliefingers]

28 now, Bard still there.Red Sox got him.

[Sonny76]

Bard to Bosox

[snatch311]

Am I the only one that hates the Red Sox more than the yankees?

[Maverick2143]

Darn stupid Red Sox took Bard

[RZNJ]

Bard goes to the Red Sox at 28!

[Sport Foo]

Bard is gone 28 to the Sox

[Skywalker76]

Of course the Red Sox took Bard........

[Sports Guy]

Who got Bard? LOL

[Maverick2143]

Ok so who do we take now?

[rolliefingers]

Am I the only one that hates the Red Sox more than the yankees?Yes. :002_stongue:

[snatch311]

Chamberlain?

[Skywalker76]

What about that Chamberlain guy at 32?

[bernie132000]

Ok so who do we take now?
chamberlain i guess

[Maverick2143]

geez i missed that he was still out there.

[Sport Foo]

Well we are on the clock...all 20 seconds of it

[AgentOrange]

everytime we talk about someone to take, they get taken...

its funny

[bigbird]

Huff????????????????

[bernie132000]

Do they take a break after the first round, or did my draftcaster freeze?

[GeorgiaBird]

Same with mine. I assume they are taking a break.

[crstrobel]

Do they take a break after the first round, or did my draftcaster freeze?

I was thinking the same thing!

[Mackus]

Huff????????????????
I think he could be the pick. They said they were gonna go after lefty pitchers. He's pretty much the 2nd best college lefty after Miller.

[Three Run Homer]

Stephen King (HS shortstop) was projected to go 13th by Callis and he's still out there...

[bird watcher]

I was thinking the same thing!
Did someone say that we were on the clock? Who did the dodgers take?

[BaltBird 24]

I know we just drafted Rowell as a third basemen, but I'd like to see us go after Wes Hodges here with our 2nd round pick. With the way our position prospects look, it can never hurt to add another good bat to the system.

[crstrobel]

Did someone say that we were on the clock? Who did the dodgers take?

no one, they are still on the clock. I guess they take a break after the first round?

[Sport Foo]

Did someone say that we were on the clock? Who did the dodgers take?

Yeah. I meant we were on the clock in 20 seconds since it was flying by, my tracker didn't realize they took a break before the supplemental.

[RZNJ]

I know we just drafted Rowell as a third basemen, but I'd like to see us go after Wes Hodges here with our 2nd round pick. With the way our position prospects look, it can never hurt to add another good bat to the system.


If they go position, they probably go for Emmanuel Burriss, SS from Kent State. Maybe he'll stil be there at 58. Huff seems like a good guess.

[rolliefingers]

no one, they are still on the clock. I guess they take a break after the first round?I mean, they gotta take a break! They were rollin' at one pick per minute.

[ofandan]

Huff???????????????? Huff or Chamberlain for me.

[bird watcher]

no one, they are still on the clock. I guess they take a break after the first round?
JMHO- If baseball wants this to be a big thing like football and basketball then they need to slow it down just a bit. Not as much as football but geesh that whole first was like a whirl wind. Here we go ok1,2,3,4,5...9..22...30 end of first ahhhhh.:eek:

[mikezpen]

Make it a power hitter whoever it is.

[hoosiers]

I like Huff.

It appears there is a good chance that some of the names discussed with the supplemental could be there in the second round for us - Anderson and Johnson.

[crstrobel]

[QUOTE=italianstallion]I mean, they gotta take a break! They were rollin' at one pick per minute.[/QUOTE

as fast as that first round went, I guess they need time to reorder their draft boards!

[Dynamite]

Sandwich round hasn't started yet. Be patient!

[ChrisP]

Sure is a long break...:(

[rolliefingers]

"The waaaaiiiting is the haaaaaarrrrdessssst part."

[bird watcher]

Sandwich round hasn't started yet. Be patient!
Contrary to popular belief, Patience is no longer a virtue.:D

[Birds of B'more]

JMHO- If baseball wants this to be a big thing like football and basketball then they need to slow it down just a bit. Not as much as football but geesh that whole first was like a whirl wind. Here we go ok1,2,3,4,5...9..22...30 end of first ahhhhh.:eek:

Part of the reason NFL and NBA drafts are more deliberate is because of the trading that goes on during both of those drafts. Teams will wait and consider trade proposals before making their pick. Since, by rule, there is no trading in the baseball draft, teams basically just have to look at their board and pick their top guy available.........that shouldn't take long.

[nevadaO]

"The waaaaiiiting is the haaaaaarrrrdessssst part."

Heck yeah it is! lol

[Sport Foo]

I think webcasting the Draft Live is a good move for MLB. It definately has made me mor einteresting, I hope for future drafts they slow it down maybe another minute between picks and add some organization to the draft and a little flash and glitz as well.

[Wingman]

I agree... I'd love to see the NFL draft (my real passion) go faster... I know they have trades to deal with but it shouldn't take 15 min. to figure things out. 10 min should be plenty.

[Sonny76]

Stephen King SS
Brett Anderson LHP
Joba Chamberlain RHP
David Huff LHP
Sean Black RHP
Brooks Brown RHP
Chris Perez RHP
Emmanuel Burriss SS
Pedro Beato RHP

Lot of top tier talent left

[NJOriolesFan]

I agree... I'd love to see the NFL draft (my real passion) go faster... I know they have trades to deal with but it shouldn't take 15 min. to figure things out. 10 min should be plenty.

Not for my Vikings. They seem to need 16 or 17 minutes. :D

[Mackus]

Is the next round starting at 2?

[markpolis]

Orioles take Pedro Beato. Awesome pick!!!

[BaltBird 24]

Here we go....

O's take Pedro Beato???

[rolliefingers]

Pedro Beato tothe O's! Anyone have info?

[Sport Foo]

Preston Mattingly to the Dodgers

RHP Pedro Beato the the Os

[nyco]

O's pick, Pedro Biato.

Is this the draft thread? I assume so with the amount of posts here.

[snatch311]

Who the heck is Peter the Beater?

[Sonny76]

O's take Pedro Beato!

[Three Run Homer]

Beato it is. He's the guy the Mets were supposed to sign as a draft and follow but didn't.

[Maverick2143]

Beato... mmm.. interesting

[Hank Scorpio]

Vote for Pedro.

[Hutman]

Beato was projected to go in the first round. BA said he was one of the best arms in the draft. NICE PICK!!! :D

[rolliefingers]

Orioles take Pedro Beato. Awesome pick!!!Care to elaborate?

[NJOriolesFan]

Pedro Beato - excellent pick. Ranked #13 by BA

[ejf1025]

I agree... I'd love to see the NFL draft (my real passion) go faster... I know they have trades to deal with but it shouldn't take 15 min. to figure things out. 10 min should be plenty.

Nothing ticks me off more than when the #1 pick takes several minutes to choose...

Sometimes the guys are already signed and they still tick down the clock; drives me nuts.

[nevadaO]

He had TJ surgery as a junior.

[Sport Foo]

RHP Pedro Beato - Junior College Pitcher

6'5 210lb - they said he had Tommy John Surgey in his Junior year.

Was drafted by the Mets last Year and was unsigned.

[Maverick2143]

I am really surprised about Chamberlain. Is there signibilty issues?

[Sports Guy]

He was a pick of the Mets and didn't sign, right?

[Hutman]

Everyone thought that the Mets would sign him, and that he wouldn't go back in the draft.

[markpolis]

Care to elaborate?

One of the best arms in the draft. Here is BA's take:

" Beato was considered an attractive, projectable pitcher as a high school underclassman at Xaverian High in Brooklyn, then had Tommy John surgery in April 2004. He returned for his senior season and showed enough to persuade the Mets to take a flier, drafting him in the 17th round last year as a draft-and-follow. They were expected to sign him, and he could command as much as $1 million. He lacks polish but flashes mid-90s heat from a clean, quick arm action. On scout day at St. Petersburg Junior College, he asked to run the 60-yard-dash and turned in a 6.7-second time, which speaks to his athletic ability. Beato features four pitches, with his fastball, slider and changeup all showing potential to be plus pitches. His fastball sits near 90 mph, touching 96. It has good, late life and sink. His 84-85 mph slider is a power pitch that he doesn't command consistently, but has sharp bite. He has feel for his changeup and will show a curveball that isn't the swing-and-miss offering his slider is. Beato has trouble repeating his delivery, which leads to erratic control. But his arm works well, and when he finds a comfortable, three-quarters slot, he can be dominant."

Surprised PA went for a kid who had Tommy John surgery in 2004. This kid could be awesome.

[snatch311]

When's our next pick?

[Sonny76]

Pedro was a Mets draft-and-follow and everyone expected him to sign with them before the draft.

[rolliefingers]

Everyone thought that the Mets would sign him, and that he wouldn't go back in the draft.Guess that explains why his name wasn't in everyone's mouth.

[markpolis]

He was a pick of the Mets and didn't sign, right?

Correct. MLB offices didn't want the Mets to offer more than $850,000. He wanted over $1mil to sign. Must were surprised the Mets didn't go over slot and pay him. This kid has huge upside. I like this pick more than the Rowell selection.

[snatch311]

So, he's had Tommy John. He has explosive stuff that he has trouble commanding....

Sounds like he'll fit right in.

[BaltBird 24]

Chamberlain to the Yankees.

[rolliefingers]

One of the best arms in the draft. Here is BA's take:

" Beato was considered an attractive, projectable pitcher as a high school underclassman at Xaverian High in Brooklyn, then had Tommy John surgery in April 2004. He returned for his senior season and showed enough to persuade the Mets to take a flier, drafting him in the 17th round last year as a draft-and-follow. They were expected to sign him, and he could command as much as $1 million. He lacks polish but flashes mid-90s heat from a clean, quick arm action. On scout day at St. Petersburg Junior College, he asked to run the 60-yard-dash and turned in a 6.7-second time, which speaks to his athletic ability. Beato features four pitches, with his fastball, slider and changeup all showing potential to be plus pitches. His fastball sits near 90 mph, touching 96. It has good, late life and sink. His 84-85 mph slider is a power pitch that he doesn't command consistently, but has sharp bite. He has feel for his changeup and will show a curveball that isn't the swing-and-miss offering his slider is. Beato has trouble repeating his delivery, which leads to erratic control. But his arm works well, and when he finds a comfortable, three-quarters slot, he can be dominant."

Surprised PA went for a kid who had Tommy John surgery in 2004. This kid could be awesome.Reminds me of Denny Bautista. Except a lot younger. Nice pick.

[Three Run Homer]

One of the best arms in the draft. Here is BA's take:

" Beato was considered an attractive, projectable pitcher as a high school underclassman at Xaverian High in Brooklyn, then had Tommy John surgery in April 2004. He returned for his senior season and showed enough to persuade the Mets to take a flier, drafting him in the 17th round last year as a draft-and-follow. They were expected to sign him, and he could command as much as $1 million. He lacks polish but flashes mid-90s heat from a clean, quick arm action. On scout day at St. Petersburg Junior College, he asked to run the 60-yard-dash and turned in a 6.7-second time, which speaks to his athletic ability. Beato features four pitches, with his fastball, slider and changeup all showing potential to be plus pitches. His fastball sits near 90 mph, touching 96. It has good, late life and sink. His 84-85 mph slider is a power pitch that he doesn't command consistently, but has sharp bite. He has feel for his changeup and will show a curveball that isn't the swing-and-miss offering his slider is. Beato has trouble repeating his delivery, which leads to erratic control. But his arm works well, and when he finds a comfortable, three-quarters slot, he can be dominant."

Surprised PA went for a kid who had Tommy John surgery in 2004. This kid could be awesome.

My impression is that once you've had TJ surgery you're unlikely to need it again. If that's true then Beato is actually less of an injury risk than most of the other pitchers in the draft.

[Hutman]

He is 6'5" 200lbs, can hit 94mph with the fastball. Says his curve and change lag behind, but they have a lot of potential.

[nyco]

More on Beato from Callis:


We ranked Beato as the No. 13 prospect on our Top 200 and he'd likely go in the second half of the first round if he re-entered the draft. He had Tommy John surgery during his junior season at Brooklyn's Xavieran High, and the Mets took him in the 17th round last year as a draft-and-follow.

That proved to be an astute decision, as he has shown three plus pitches at times this spring. Beato has a hard sinker that sits around 90 mph and touches 96. He also has a sharp 84-85 mph slider and a promising changeup. He has a strong build at 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds, and his biggest need is to improve his mechanics and, by extension, his command. At age 19, he has plenty of time to figure that out.

[Sport Foo]

When's our next pick?

We pick next at 58...they are on Pick 43 right now

[tywright]

[QUOTE=markpolis]Beato has trouble repeating his delivery, which leads to erratic control. But his arm works well, and when he finds a comfortable, three-quarters slot, he can be dominant." [QUOTE]

uh oh...sounds like D Cab

[Elon Os Fan]

When do the O's pick next?

[Sports Guy]

Already TJ surgery? Oh well, got it out of the way...LOL

[ejf1025]

Electric stuff with command issues....at least we are consistent.

[Mackus]

My impression is that once you've had TJ surgery you're unlikely to need it again. If that's true then Beato is actually less of an injury risk than most of the other pitchers in the draft.
And he's already pitched for 2 seasons following his TJ surgery.

[snatch311]

So Draft guys, who's the next guy we should be on the lookout for?

[Hutman]

[QUOTE=markpolis]Beato has trouble repeating his delivery, which leads to erratic control. But his arm works well, and when he finds a comfortable, three-quarters slot, he can be dominant." [QUOTE]

uh oh...sounds like D Cab

Gee and if D Cab ever harnesses his stuff we have a # 1 starter. If we had 3 or 4 D Cab's in our farm system we'd be in great shape. :SuN037:

[snatch311]

I am hoping either King or Huff drops to us in the second round.

[mikezpen]

Add Loewen and we'll have the most exciting three pitchers in the game.

[keenan42]

Huff's already been taken 39th.

[Sport Foo]

Huff is gone went to the Indians...My tracker stopped at 47 which is 3 picks into the second round. But we are 11 away at 58.

[Frobby]

Interesting that so far we are going young. We won't see either of our top 2 picks in the majors for 3-4 years. What does that say about the Orioles' strategy for the next 2-3 years at the big league level?

[snatch311]

that's what i get for going to the bathroom.

[markpolis]

My hope is Stephen King, SS Olk. High School.

[RZNJ]

I am hoping either King or Huff drops to us in the second round.


Right. King would be a very good selection, IMO.

[tywright]

Add Loewen and we'll have the most exciting three pitchers in the game.

yeah I mean we already have the most wild bunch of starting pitchers in the majors, why should we change

[AgentOrange]

Interesting that so far we are going young. We won't see either of our top 2 picks in the majors for 3-4 years. What does that say about the Orioles' strategy for the next 2-3 years at the big league level?


Extend Millar and Conine ;)

[mikezpen]

We won't see either of our top 2 picks in the majors for 3-4 years. What does that say about the Orioles' strategy for the next 2-3 years at the big league level?

Angelos is going to spend tons of money on free agents so we can have a good team.

or

It's going to be a long 3-4 years.

[Sonny76]

Check out Roch on Rowell...interesting, he's 22 for 23 in SB attempts :) Power AND speed!

[RZNJ]

Interesting that so far we are going young. We won't see either of our top 2 picks in the majors for 3-4 years. What does that say about the Orioles' strategy for the next 2-3 years at the big league level?


It shows they are going for the best talent, not which players might get to the majors first. Good strategy. Would you rather have Larry Bigbie or Carl Crawford? If you thought long term you got Crawford and he still arrived about the same time as Bigbie.

[NJOriolesFan]

These would be good picks:

Brett Anderson LHP High School
Derrick Robinson OF High School
Lars Anderson 1B High School
Wes Hodges 3B Georgia Tech
Chad Tracy C Pepperdine

[snatch311]

Adam Dunn stole 19 bags his first full season. Isn't that who Rowell is being compared to?

[Hutman]

yeah I mean we already have the most wild bunch of starting pitchers in the majors, why should we change


Hey ty why you being such a hater here. This thread is to talk about the draft.

[tywright]

Hey ty why you being such a hater here. This thread is to talk about the draft.

because I'm a hater who is realistic... great first pick, but we need more position player prospects not another wild and unpredictable pitcher

[Sport Foo]

These would be good picks:

Brett Anderson LHP High School
Derrick Robinson OF High School
Lars Anderson 1B High School
Wes Hodges 3B Georgia Tech
Chad Tracy C Pepperdine

I liked Anderson too, they said he was the best HS pitcher in the draft, but he just got picked. The other issue is signability he may want to go to College and pitch for his dad.

[nevadaO]

At 58 the Orioles get 3B Ryan Adams - Jesuit HS.

[tywright]

Ryan Adams, HS, 3B

[markpolis]

With our 2nd round pick, the O's select Ryan Adams, 3B, Jesuit HS, Indiana

[TyCobb]

With our 2nd round pick, the O's select Ryan Adams, 3B, Jesuit HS, Indiana

anyone know anything about Adams?

[snatch311]

A right handed bat is nice. Don't know much about this guy. I like the pitch recognition comments though. Bluefield is going to be stacked it looks like... haha.

[Sport Foo]

We are up and we take...Ryan Adams.

R/R Thirdbaseman Jesuit High School Born 4/21/1987

Says a line drive swing, good plate discipline. Hamstring hurt his draft status.

[Wingman]

because I'm a hater who is realistic... great first pick, but we need more position player prospects not another wild and unpredictable pitcher

Like Randy Johnson was???

Take it easy, the kid is only 19... It's not like he's a major college junior or senior.

[BaltBird 24]

O's sure are loading up on the younger players. On Adams....

"Has advanced skills at the plate with pitch recognition and a line-drive swing. has tools to play short, but may end up being an offensive 2nd basemen."

We could use some more pitch recognition guys.

[GeorgiaBird]

I actually saw Adams play in a HS game earlier this year, I am pretty sure. I am no scout but he was clearly the best player in the game. Jesuit produced Rusty Staub and Will Clark over the years, to name a few. I hope Adams can join that list.

[Hutman]

The write-up projects him as probable a second baseman at the major league level.

[tywright]

Like Randy Johnson was???

Take it easy, the kid is only 19... It's not like he's a major college junior or senior.


How many Randy Johnson's have there been?

[rlc]

A 19 year old high school player? Ugh - hope he turns out better than Bass and Schafer. Otherwise I'll think of him as Jordan's first blunder.

[Hutman]

How many Randy Johnson's have there been?

How many kids are fully developed at 19. He is a talented kid with a great arm, and projected to go in the first round. He is a nice pick.:002_sbiggrin:

[snatch311]

I agree RLC, I didn't like that age when I saw it either. I mean, I didn't turn 19 untill I was a sophomore in college... ha.

[markpolis]

A 19 year old high school player? Ugh - hope he turns out better than Bass and Schafer. Otherwise I'll think of him as Jordan's first blunder.

Agreed. Injury history and his position make this a questionable pick.

[Wingman]

How many Randy Johnson's have there been?

Randy Johnson wasn't my main point... This a young kid who has a tremendous upside. And BA rated him the 13th best prospect and we got him at 32... That's a great pick IMO.

[TyCobb]

Anyone knows if there are any steals left?

[Frobby]

In Jordan we trust. Seems like Adams might have been around in the 3rd round. But I will go with Jordan, he earned it last year.

[markpolis]

Next pick for us, #85 in the 3rd round.

[Hutman]

Hodges to the Indians at 69. :eek:

[snatch311]

Isn't King on the board?

Maybe we can get another Gilhooly in the third.

[tywright]

Randy Johnson wasn't my main point... This a young kid who has a tremendous upside. And BA rated him the 13th best prospect and we got him at 32... That's a great pick IMO.

Its going to be interesting to see how much he signs for because wants at least $1 million.

All I'm saying is, why not load up on position prospects because we sure don't have many in stock

[Maverick2143]

hmmmm... Laporta is still out there.

[snatch311]

True, I forgot about Laporta. We want/need Power right? There ya go.

[Wingman]

Interesting quote from BA on Adams:

"On The Move
2:25 p.m.: The Orioles announced their second-round pick of Ryan Adams as a third baseman. A shortstop at Jesuit High in New Orleans, Adams bulked up this season and lacks the range to play middle infield. He also battled a hamstring injury which played a part in him slipping to the second round after opening the season as a potential first-round pick.
-- Alan Matthews"

[Hutman]

hmmmm... Laporta is still out there.

LaPorta was projected to drop, because of his year. He has had some health issues so he may be a 4th or 5th round pick.

[Wingman]

Its going to be interesting to see how much he signs for because wants at least $1 million.

All I'm saying is, why not load up on position prospects because we sure don't have many in stock


The reason is that unlike football or basketball where organizational need play a much bigger role in drafting philosophy. You draft much more the BPA in baseball because it normally takes so long for players to develop and when they are ready for the major leagues, your team needs invariably have changed.

[Maverick2143]

Its going to be interesting to see how much he signs for because wants at least $1 million.

All I'm saying is, why not load up on position prospects because we sure don't have many in stock

Because there isnt that many positional prospects available in this draft. Many experts have said it is the weakest draft for position players in the last 10 years.

No sense in drafting crappy talent just for the sake of saying we "addressed" our posititonal needs, when those needs are still going to be there because we drafted crappy talent.

[markpolis]

I'd like to see one of the following:

Lars Anderson is still available. Stephen King is still available. Also available are:

Dustin Dickerson, 3b/1b; Midway HS, Texas, L-R, 6-4. Wt.: 205 or

Matt Latos, rhp; Coconut Creek HS, Fla. R-R.; 6-5; 208.

And if you really want another DCab then Dellin Betances is still out there. He's rhp from Grand Street HS, NY. R-R.; 6-9; 215. The skinny: Betances commands attention on the mound, and has flashed big stuff to match his size. He had scouts buzzing when he showed low- to mid-90s velocity in last year's Aflac game, when he needed just nine pitches to retire the heart of the West lineup.

[TyCobb]

my draft tracker is stuck on 74 is anyone else the same?

[keenan42]

I wouldn't mind seeing us take a chance on Kyle Orr. We have a history with Canadians. He's got a great frame at 6'5 he just needs to add a fair amount of weight.

[tywright]

http://www.nypost.com/sports/64345.htm


The Mets drafted Beato in the 13th round a year ago following a strong senior season, but questions still lingered about the health of his arm because of the injury. He answered them this season at St. Petersburg Junior College in Florida, where he went instead of signing with the Mets. He finished 6-3 with a 2.75 ERA.

"I never lost any confidence," Beato said. "I wanted to show everyone what I could do and that I'm better than I was before."



"Right now, it's 50-50," Zitter said of his signing with the Mets. "For Pedro, it's a win-win situation. If the Mets make a good offer, he'll sign there. If they don't, he re-enters the draft and could get a good deal somewhere else. If that doesn't happen, he'll go back to school."


According to scouts, Beato, who occasionally hit the mid-90s at Xaverian, occasionally hit 97 at St. Petersburg.

"I'm throwing better now than I ever did before," said Beato, who came to the U.S. with his parents from the Dominican Republic six years ago. "I'm looking forward to playing."

[RZNJ]

my draft tracker is stuck on 74 is anyone else the same?


Yeah, they must take a 5 minute break or so between each round.

[AgentOrange]

Yeah, probably to re-organize the paperwork, I could just imagine the war-rooms being a cluster...

[byrdz]

Interesting quote from BA on Adams:

"On The Move
2:25 p.m.: The Orioles announced their second-round pick of Ryan Adams as a third baseman. A shortstop at Jesuit High in New Orleans, Adams bulked up this season and lacks the range to play middle infield. He also battled a hamstring injury which played a part in him slipping to the second round after opening the season as a potential first-round pick.
-- Alan Matthews"

Why would a hamstring injury drop a player in the draft? Is it that serious that it would keep him from being just as good of a player as he would have been before the injury. Seems pretty minor but Ive never had this injury. Could the Orioles have gotten a steal with Adams really being a legit first rounder?

[paulcoates]

How about Jordan Walden here?

As the ace pitcher on one of the top high school teams in Texas, Walden will deal with plenty of fanfare this season. He's got the even-keeled yet competitive attitude to handle the pressure, and his stuff is equally impressive. Walden locked up a starting job in the 2005 Area Code Games all-star game when he ran his fastball into the high-90s during a tryout, then pitched two scoreless innings as the West's starter in the third annual Aflac game last summer. His breaking ball has good downward bite, although his changeup requires lots of work. He gets plenty of swings and misses with his stuff but will need to improve his overall command as he advances. His frame is strong and durable, and he's very athletic. He played basketball at Mansfield High as a freshman and sophomore, and he bats in the heart of its batting order.


Or maybe Dellin Betances?

A gangly 6-foot-9 product from New York’s inner-city, Betances belies the prototype of a first-round pick. His stuff, however, should help him overcome shortcomings and stereotypes. His fastball has movement and life at the plate, and his mid-70s breaking ball has tight rotation and nice tilt.

His mechanics need work, but most scouts see some ability to repeat his delivery and the athleticism to do so more consistently as he learns how to control his body over the rubber. "When I see a little off-the-chart delivery, I ask, 'Would you want to hit against him', and the answer is no," another AL scouting director said.

[NCRaven]

It caused him to miss a lot of his senior season and may linger into the rest of his rookie minor league season, so it was hard for teams to really get a good look at him.

[nevadaO]

At 85 the Orioles select Zachary Britton, LHP - Weatherford HS.

[markpolis]

With our 3rd round pick we select Z. Britton, LH,

[BaltBird 24]

O's take HS LHP Zachary Britton.

[TyCobb]

Don't we already have a Britton.

[PaulFolk]

Any relation to Chris??

[NJOriolesFan]

Zach Britton LHP

[markpolis]

Here's the skinny on Britton:

L-L. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 180. Birthdate: 12/22/87.

"Clayton Kershaw isn't the only Texas high school lefthander who has shot up the charts this spring. After sitting at 86-87 mph in 2005, Britton's fastball shot up to 92-93 for much of this spring. He further helped his cause by outpitching the more ballyhooed Jordan Walden when scouts swarmed to their matchup in early April. Britton's velocity has tailed off slightly this spring, but his arm works well and he'll have a consistent plus fastball once he fills out. There's plenty of room to add strength to his athletic 6-foot-3, 180 pound frame. As he matures physically, he should add power to his curveball, which should become a solid-average pitch once he learns to stay on top of it better. Walden's delivery isn't deceptive, so refining a changeup to keep righthanders off balance will be important. Texas A&M did a nice job of identifying Britton's potential, but he started to achieve it so quickly that it's now unlikely he'll turn down pro ball for college."

[keenan42]

Someone suggested we take him in one of the pre-draft threads.

[snatch311]

Well, I'm not going to say that I'm disappointed by the draft so far, but I'm also not excited.

[RZNJ]

Well, I'm not going to say that I'm disappointed by the draft so far, but I'm also not excited.


You were probably saying something similar at this time last year. Snyder, Olson, Reimold, and Erbe weren't exactly big names at the time.

If anything we are taking guys who are more highly rated (At least by BA) this year. Beato was ranked #13, Rowell #17, Adams #66, and Britton #59.

[Hutman]

Well, I'm not going to say that I'm disappointed by the draft so far, but I'm also not excited.

In Jordan we trust. In Jordan we trust. He did a great job last year, so lets keep the faith. So far its a good mix of hitting and pitching.

[keenan42]

You were probably saying something similar at this time last year. Snyder, Olson, Reimold, and Erbe weren't exactly big names at the time.

This is exactly what everybody was saying after last year's first few rounds. We need to let the players play and then decide on whether it was a good pick or a bad pick. Just because the biggest name is selected like King or Anderson doesn't mean it is a bad pick.

And the person who correctly predicted that we would take Zach Britton 85th overall was Jammer7....thats pretty impressive.

[Frobby]

You were probably saying something similar at this time last year. Snyder, Olson, Reimold, and Erbe weren't exactly big names at the time.

People around here were pretty jazzed about those 4. Snyder and Erbe played close by, and Reimold was seen as a polished product. These guys are longer term projects and there is no local angle.

[markpolis]

You were probably saying something similar at this time last year. Snyder, Olson, Reimold, and Erbe weren't exactly big names at the time.

If anything we are taking guys who are more highly rated (At least by BA) this year. Beato was ranked #13, Rowell #17, Adams #66, and Britton #59.

I love the Beato pick. I like the Rowell and Britton picks. I do not like the Adams pick. There were many better similar players available.

[RZNJ]

Stephen King, SS, went #91 to Washington. I would have liked this guy in the 2nd or 3rd round. Oh well. Guess they liked Ryan Adams better. Hope they're right.

[Frobby]

Here's the skinny on Britton:

Definitely not talking about Chris! :p

[RZNJ]

O's have drafted one 17 yo, one 18 yo, and two 19 yo. Will they go heavy on the HS players or go college in the 4th?

[markpolis]

This is exactly what everybody was saying after last year's first few rounds. We need to let the players play and then decide on whether it was a good pick or a bad pick. Just because the biggest name is selected like King or Anderson doesn't mean it is a bad pick.

And the person who correctly predicted that we would take Zach Britton 85th overall was Jammer7....thats pretty impressive.

Props to Jammer7. I wonder if he would have said that if he'd have known Lars Anderson and Dellin Betances were still available?

[ejf1025]

This is exactly what everybody was saying after last year's first few rounds. We need to let the players play and then decide on whether it was a good pick or a bad pick. Just because the biggest name is selected like King or Anderson doesn't mean it is a bad pick.

And the person who correctly predicted that we would take Zach Britton 85th overall was Jammer7....thats pretty impressive.

That is pretty impressive.

[TyCobb]

I just hope whoever we have that will sign quickly.

[markpolis]

LaPorta, Lars Anderson and Dellin Betances are still available. I hope we get one of the first basemen.

[markdublya]

How many more pick before Balt?

[TyCobb]

How many more pick before Balt?

we are 115 so we have 9 more picks to go.

[nevadaO]

How many more pick before Balt?

Nine at the moment.

[ejf1025]

I think the "Evan Longoria has no relation to Eva Longoria" joke has been beaten to death.

Let's get a new script ESPN....

[PaulFolk]

I think the "Evan Longoria has no relation to Eva Longoria" joke has been beaten to death.

Let's get a new script ESPN....
That's not really a joke...that's actually somewhat useful information. I know it's the first thing that popped in my mind when I saw his name.

[ejf1025]

That's not really a joke...that's actually somewhat useful information. I know it's the first thing that popped in my mind when I saw his name.

Fair enough...

[AgentOrange]

That's not really a joke...that's actually somewhat useful information. I know it's the first thing that popped in my mind when I saw his name.


I suppose maybe once or twice, but they love saying it every time his name comes up.

[Ballbusters]

If you want a power hitting first baseman, look at Charlie Yarbrough from Eastern Kentucky around the 10th round. Pure Power

[RZNJ]

Props to Jammer7. I wonder if he would have said that if he'd have known Lars Anderson and Dellin Betances were still available?


If Jammer7 picked Britton it must have been somewhere else becaue it wasn't here:


I'd love it, but that ain't gonna happen short of a miracle. He's the most polished hitter in the draft (by far) according to everybody in the business. I just don't want them to take Drew Stubbs! Give me something along the lines of:

1. Bill Rowell 3B* 6-05 200 (N.J. H.S.)
1a. Lars Anderson 1B* 6-05 195 (Ca. H.S.)
2. Kris Johnson LHP 6-03 185 (Wichita St.)
3. Dylan Brown OF 6-03 210 (Fl. H.S.)
4. Zach McAllister RHP 6-05 230 (Il. H.S.)
5. Chad Rodgers LHP 6-03 175 (Oh. H.S.)

If he picked him somewhere else then props from me to. I will give Jammer props for suggesting that Jordan would go heavy for HS players this year.
and I'll be happy.
__________________

[Three Run Homer]

We should take Laporta if he's still available. Going into the season he looked like the best college power hitter available, then he got hurt and had a disappointing season. We've done well drafting college players whose stock dropped following disappointing seasons--Reimold last year fits that description, and I think Chris Ray and John Maine did as well.

[Sport Foo]

Here we go...its on the move again...Alexander Cobb at 109...Orioles are 6 away.

Heres hoping for a Power hitting 1B!

[keenan42]

My "wishlist" (at a glance) for the first few rounds would be something like:
1. (9) Billy Rowell 3B* N.J. (H.S.)
1. (32) Matt Latos RHP FL. (H.S.)
2. (58) Lars Anderson 1B* CA. (H.S.)
3. (85) Zach Britton LHP TX. (H.S.)
4. (115) Ryan Kalish OF* N.J. (H.S.)
5. (145) Ben Snyder LHP Ball St.

It's the second or third post in the Draft wishlist thread.

[keenan42]

I wanted Kyle Orr.

[TyCobb]

O's take Blake Davis, SS Cal St Fullerton.

[Sport Foo]

Kyle Orrr went 2 before us we take...Blake Davis SS Cal State Fullerton

[markpolis]

Our 4th round pick is: Blake Davis, SS, CalSt Fullerton

[RZNJ]

Blake Davis, SS. Cal St. Fullerton. Well, this one is literally off the charts! ???

[bronzechamp]

Any info on the guy? Btw whats our draft order so far?

Rowell
Beato
?
Britton
Davies

[BaltBird 24]

Don't know where we are going to put all of these guys, but Davis sounds like a decent prospect. Not a whole lot of HR power, but good speed and defense.

[Nuclear Dish]

Blake Davis, SS. Cal St. Fullerton. Well, this one is literally off the charts! ???

It's a great pick. He's a 4-year college player with some real talent. He could have been picked even a couple rounds higher, from what I've heard. He's 23 though, so he's gotta be ready to move through the system quickly.

[TyCobb]

Any info on the guy? Btw whats our draft order so far?

Rowell
Beato
?
Britton
Davies
? is Adams i think.

[Icebird]

Sweet! Skipshot26 and I are the Fullerton folks here.

Blake will be on display on ESPN (or ESPN2 or ESPNU) this weekend as Cal State Fullerton hosts Mizzou in the Super Regionals (times yet TBA).

Simply put - he's solid. A true team leader who came back to Fullerton so he could play alongside Justin Turner one more year - they've been on the same teams for like a dozen years.

The more I see him, the more I like his play. Nothing flashy, just a solid infielder. His makeup is wonderful.

[ejf1025]

He seems to be the one on the fastest track to the bigs...College senior, strong defender, good baserunner according to the blurb on the drafttracker.

[snatch311]

Brandon Fahey basically?

[justD]

Sweet! Skipshot26 and I are the Fullerton folks here.

Hey, me too, back in the day

[keenan42]

No, not at all. I would say more like Brian Roberts.

[ccbird]

Our strenth in the minors is pitching and OF. I like we are adding early rd talent to the Inf positions. Now lets find a good 1b power prospect in the next few rds.

[Icebird]

Hey, me too, back in the day

Sweet! Great to see a fellow Titan here - that makes three! : )

Here's more on our boy Davis:

http://fullertontitans.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/mtt/davis_blake00.html

[snatch311]

I looked at his numbers, and it looked like Brob with less power, worse approach, and less speed. Maybe I'm wrong though...

[Nuclear Dish]

I looked at his numbers, and it looked like Brob with less power, worse approach, and less speed. Maybe I'm wrong though...

I think Fahey is a good comp for him.

[Sports Guy]

They must really dislike LaPorta.

[snatch311]

I'd just rather not see a guy who's comp is Fahey picked ahead of a lot of other guys. Call me crazy, but I'm not the biggest on the .280/.330/.380 types.

[BRobAllStar1]

Davis' nickname is "Rat."

For what it's worth.

[NCRaven]

If they don't like LaPorta, then I guess no one else does, either.

[ejf1025]

Sweet! Great to see a fellow Titan here - that makes three! : )

Here's more on our boy Davis:

http://fullertontitans.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/mtt/davis_blake00.html

He has two different color eyes?

That's freaky...

[Sports Guy]

I'd just rather not see a guy who's comp is Fahey picked ahead of a lot of other guys. Call me crazy, but I'm not the biggest on the .280/.330/.380 types.

I agree here....Always utility guys available at the drop of a hat.

Would have liked to have seen them go for more upside.

[RZNJ]

I'd just rather not see a guy who's comp is Fahey picked ahead of a lot of other guys. Call me crazy, but I'm not the biggest on the .280/.330/.380 types.


Look at our draft last year. Most of the predictable talent ran out after the 3rd or 4th round. This draft is supposed to be significantly weaker. You're going to have to get lucky from here on out.

[Mackus]

At this point, theres probably no reason to take LaPorta. You have to think he'll probably go back to school and try to put up numebrs to get back in the first round. Unless you offer him at least second or third round money, he's probably not signing.

[justD]

I looked at his numbers, and it looked like Brob with less power, worse approach, and less speed. Maybe I'm wrong though...

"Led the Titans with 17 stolen bases (in 19 attempts), finishing just behind Cal Poly's Brandon Roberts (20) for the top conference spot"

(From that CSUF link posted above)

[markdublya]

Looks like we are stockpiling Middle Infielders again, to eventually trade to the Cubs...:D

[RZNJ]

I agree here....Always utility guys available at the drop of a hat.

Would have liked to have seen them go for more upside.


I do agree with this. I'm getting the impression that either LaPorta has told teams not to draft him unless it was in the first couple of rounds or he must really have some medical questions.

[thrifty]

This guy Davis is going to be a good major league player. He is not Fahey. He has the potential to be a BRob. BRob didn't always show a lot of power. He developed it. Davis is a solid ballplayer.

[Sports Guy]

One thing that bears repeating is how dissapointed we were in the Olson and Reimold picks last year.

[TyCobb]

I hope the O's get players that will sign with the O's. I going to stay for this last round, hopefully we get a nice power hitting 1st baseman or catcher.

[snatch311]

Davis stole 14 bases in 21 attempts this year. He walked 21 times in 223 at bats. He hat 19 XBH in 223 at bats, and an iso slug of .128.

When Roberts was in college, he stole 60+ bases. He hit 12 or 13 home runs two of his seasons. I could probably guess that he walked more than once every 10 at bats also.

Fahey's last year at Texas, he stole 9 of 11 bases in only 142 at bats. He had 14 walks in 142 at bats. He had 13 XBH in 142 abs.

So, I stand corrected. You guys were right. More BRob than Fahey.

All of this of course with Davis being significantly older at the same point as both guys.

[ejf1025]

I do agree with this. I'm getting the impression that either LaPorta has told teams not to draft him unless it was in the first couple of rounds or he must really have some medical questions.

Here's what Sickels' had to say last week:

"The Tuesday Before Draft Day: Matt LaPorta
By John Sickels
Posted on Tue May 30, 2006 at 05:57:28 PM CST

Matt LaPorta, 1B, University of Florida
Was supposed to be a star college slugger this year and certain first round pick. But injuries and an early slump ruined his numbers: he hit just .259 in 158 at-bats. LaPorta did hit 14 homers and draw 28 walks, so he maintained his power and patience. But .259. . .that's an awfully low batting average for a talented college hitter, bad luck and injuries or not. At 6-1, 215 pounds, LaPorta is a powerful hitter from the right side of the plate, but will have to show that he can make contact against high-level breaking balls and changeups. His defense is not a major asset, so his bat will have to carry him. A Scott Boras client, LaPorta is a guy who could slide a lot farther than people expect, maybe even beyond the tenth round, if clubs think his bonus demands are unreasonable. Or he could still go in the first round, for a team willing to take a risk in exchange for a possible big power payoff."

[Sports Guy]

There you go...Boras client...Enough said.

[Mackus]

Here's what Sickels' had to say last week:

"The Tuesday Before Draft Day: Matt LaPorta
By John Sickels
Posted on Tue May 30, 2006 at 05:57:28 PM CST

Matt LaPorta, 1B, University of Florida
Was supposed to be a star college slugger this year and certain first round pick. But injuries and an early slump ruined his numbers: he hit just .259 in 158 at-bats. LaPorta did hit 14 homers and draw 28 walks, so he maintained his power and patience. But .259. . .that's an awfully low batting average for a talented college hitter, bad luck and injuries or not. At 6-1, 215 pounds, LaPorta is a powerful hitter from the right side of the plate, but will have to show that he can make contact against high-level breaking balls and changeups. His defense is not a major asset, so his bat will have to carry him. A Scott Boras client, LaPorta is a guy who could slide a lot farther than people expect, maybe even beyond the tenth round, if clubs think his bonus demands are unreasonable. Or he could still go in the first round, for a team willing to take a risk in exchange for a possible big power payoff."

I'd take a chance on LaPorta with a mid-late round pick, like 7th or 8th. This is generally a weak draft, so taking someone with first round potential even though its not likely he signs would be a good risk.

Despite not hitting that great this year, LaPorta still showed great patience and good power. He still had over a .400 OBP despite the low batting average. I think he's a guy we should look at late and see if we can get him to sign.