Kevin Goldstein Interview

[alexei606]

Given all the hints that have been dropped by the "in the know" folks about BAL being frustrated with Rowell's "attitude", I can't imagine them throwing tons of money at Harper if his "attitude" is indeed a problem. Shrug. To be honest, I don't really care what his line looks like at CSN. He's a high school junior playing against kids three years older than he is. Strasburg was a very "safe" pick by most standards and still only netted around 50% more than his nearest comp -- Price. So what if Harper does the same and gets $10M (improving upon Tate's record from last year)? If you believe in the package, I think you pay that.

But I'd also collect mountains of info upon which to base my decision. Coachability would not be a small part of the equation.

I agree with your take on Harper, he is three years younger, has big tools and you do pay for that. $10 million is cheap compared to what they are still paying (man, Huff just got $3 million and he is toast, Atkins got $4.5 million and what is his ceiling?). Rowell is no where near the talent that Harper is and he had no where near the hype this kid has faced, so I would be quite unhappy if the Orioles passed on Harper because of the "Rowell factor". I agree that coachability is an important part, but, not all 17 yr kids grow into 20 yr old Rowells.

[alexei606]

Believe it or not, I don't think Taillon comes that much cheaper than Harper when all is said and done (provided no injury or fall-off from either).

From what I have read and the video I've seen on this kid, I wouldn't be surprised. I was hoping for Taillon before and still would be quite happy if the Orioles picked him.

[Greg Pappas]

I believe in Harper personally, and agree that he shouldn't be judged too harshly on how he performs against stiff and older competition. I'd be thrilled to draft him.

[Ruzious]

I agree with your take on Harper, he is three years younger, has big tools and you do pay for that. $10 million is cheap compared to what they are still paying (man, Huff just got $3 million and he is toast, Atkins got $4.5 million and what is his ceiling?). Rowell is no where near the talent that Harper is and he had no where near the hype this kid has faced, so I would be quite unhappy if the Orioles passed on Harper because of the "Rowell factor". I agree that coachability is an important part, but, not all 17 yr kids grow into 20 yr old Rowells.

And I'm guessing if Rowell really was as talented as the experts thought, there wouldn't be as much focus on his perceived lack of maturity - as his talent would shine through and he'd actually perform reasonably well.

[PoleyFan]

Ah yes. I can't get into specifics, but word is that Harper is only doing "Okay" in pre-spring workouts at CSN, and there is also talk of his being a bit aloof/arrogant. He is awfully young and may yet be incredible at CSN this year, but Jameson Taillon may very well push Harper for the overall #1.

I hope this isn't true, and I'm actually surprised to hear it as guys I know who have played with him had nothing but positive things to say about how humble and polite he is. Kind of a Strasburg in that he's quiet, but not full of himself.

[Greg Pappas]

I hope this isn't true, and I'm actually surprised to hear it as guys I know who have played with him had nothing but positive things to say about how humble and polite he is. Kind of a Strasburg in that he's quiet, but not full of himself.

I've heard the same perception from more than one source, though he could very well be a good guy and simply misunderstood by those who do not know him well. Perhaps his quiet demeanor is being misconstrued as aloofness? Just because a couple of sources imply something about a young man doesn't necessarily mean it's true. At the same time it should be noted, especially if the sources are considered reliable. Thanks for the post though, it's good to hear that from you.