Jim Callis chat 5/19

[PBR Street Gang]

FWIW......http://www.baseballamerica.com/chat/?1274274567

Derick (Jim Thorpe, PA): After Baltimore's "blunder" last year with Hobgood, there's no way they pull a similar stunt this year is there? Assuming Harper goes 1, and Pomeranz goes 2, does Baltimore jump on Taillon? If Taillon goes 2, where do think Baltimore will go, Machado?

Jim Callis: Early indications are that the Orioles will not stick to slot. I think they take Taillon or Machado, depending on what the Pirates do. Pomeranz is not at his best right now, so I wouldn't assume he'll go No. 2.

[RVAbird]

Thanks. Of note:

Jim (Amsterdam, The Netherlands): It seems like Zack Cox' stock is on the rise a bit and is projected to go in the top 5. Is there still concern that he has to sacrifice some of his hitting ability to hit for power or is he easing those doubts this season? Also what about his defense, is 2nd base a realistic option?

Jim Callis: I think I like Cox a little more than most. He's the best pure hitter in this draft and he's strong, so I think he'll be able to develop more power without sacrificing much in the way of average. I don't see 2B as a realistic fit, though some scouts think it might work. I'd just leave him at 3B and I think he'll be fine there.