Source: BA
SI.com
MiLB.com
Brewerfan.net
ESPN.com
SI.com
MiLB.com
Brewerfan.net
ESPN.com
First-Year Player Draft (also known as the Rule 4 Draft)
2010 Draft order
First-Round Picks
1. Nationals
2. Pirates
3. Orioles
4. Royals
5. Indians
6. Diamondbacks
7. Mets
8. Astros
9. Padres
10. Athletics
11. Blue Jays
12. Reds
13. White Sox
14. Brewers
15. Rangers (for failure to sign 2009 first-rounder Matt Purke)
16. Cubs
17. Rays
18. Angels (from Mariners for Chone Figgins, A)
19. Astros (from Tigers for Jose Valverde, A)
20. Red Sox (from Braves for Billy Wagner, A)
21. Twins
22. Rangers
23. Marlins
24. Giants
25. Cardinals
26. Rockies
27. Phillies
28. Dodgers
29. Angels (from Red Sox for John Lackey, A)
30. Angels
31. Rays (for failure to sign 2009 first-rounder LeVon Washington)
32. Yankees
Supplemental First-Round Picks
33. Astros (Valverde)
34. Blue Jays (Marco Scutaro, A, to Red Sox)
35. Braves (Mike Gonzalez, A, to Orioles)
36. Red Sox (Wagner)
37. Angels (Figgins)
38. Blue Jays (for failure to sign 2009 sandwich-rounder James Paxton)
39. Red Sox (Jason Bay, A, to Mets)
40. Angels (Lackey)
[Blue Jays if Rod Barajas, B, departs]
41. Rays (Gregg Zaun, B, to Brewers)
42. Mariners (Adrian Beltre, B, to Red Sox)
43. Tigers (Brandon Lyon, B, to Astros)
44. Rangers (Ivan Rodriguez, B, to Nationals)
45. Cardinals (Mark DeRosa, B, to Giants)
46. Rockies (Jason Marquis, B, to Nationals)
47. Tigers (Fernando Rodney, B, to Angels)
48. Rangers (Marlon Byrd, B, to Cubs)
49. Cardinals (Joel Pineiro, B, to Angels)
Second-Round Changes
52. Braves (from Orioles for Gonzalez)
56. Red Sox (from Mets for Bay)
69. Blue Jays (for failure to sign 2009 second-rounder Jake Eliopoulos)
78. Blue Jays (from Red Sox for Scutaro)
79. Rays (for failure to sign 2009 second-rounder Kenny Diekroeger)
Supplemental Third-Round Picks
112. Blue Jays (for failure to sign 2009 third-rounder Jake Barrett)
113. White Sox (for failure to sign 2009 third-rounder Bryan Morgado)
114. Angels (for failure to sign 2009 third-rounder Josh Spence)
1. Nationals
2. Pirates
3. Orioles
4. Royals
5. Indians
6. Diamondbacks
7. Mets
8. Astros
9. Padres
10. Athletics
11. Blue Jays
12. Reds
13. White Sox
14. Brewers
15. Rangers (for failure to sign 2009 first-rounder Matt Purke)
16. Cubs
17. Rays
18. Angels (from Mariners for Chone Figgins, A)
19. Astros (from Tigers for Jose Valverde, A)
20. Red Sox (from Braves for Billy Wagner, A)
21. Twins
22. Rangers
23. Marlins
24. Giants
25. Cardinals
26. Rockies
27. Phillies
28. Dodgers
29. Angels (from Red Sox for John Lackey, A)
30. Angels
31. Rays (for failure to sign 2009 first-rounder LeVon Washington)
32. Yankees
Supplemental First-Round Picks
33. Astros (Valverde)
34. Blue Jays (Marco Scutaro, A, to Red Sox)
35. Braves (Mike Gonzalez, A, to Orioles)
36. Red Sox (Wagner)
37. Angels (Figgins)
38. Blue Jays (for failure to sign 2009 sandwich-rounder James Paxton)
39. Red Sox (Jason Bay, A, to Mets)
40. Angels (Lackey)
[Blue Jays if Rod Barajas, B, departs]
41. Rays (Gregg Zaun, B, to Brewers)
42. Mariners (Adrian Beltre, B, to Red Sox)
43. Tigers (Brandon Lyon, B, to Astros)
44. Rangers (Ivan Rodriguez, B, to Nationals)
45. Cardinals (Mark DeRosa, B, to Giants)
46. Rockies (Jason Marquis, B, to Nationals)
47. Tigers (Fernando Rodney, B, to Angels)
48. Rangers (Marlon Byrd, B, to Cubs)
49. Cardinals (Joel Pineiro, B, to Angels)
Second-Round Changes
52. Braves (from Orioles for Gonzalez)
56. Red Sox (from Mets for Bay)
69. Blue Jays (for failure to sign 2009 second-rounder Jake Eliopoulos)
78. Blue Jays (from Red Sox for Scutaro)
79. Rays (for failure to sign 2009 second-rounder Kenny Diekroeger)
Supplemental Third-Round Picks
112. Blue Jays (for failure to sign 2009 third-rounder Jake Barrett)
113. White Sox (for failure to sign 2009 third-rounder Bryan Morgado)
114. Angels (for failure to sign 2009 third-rounder Josh Spence)
Through the first 40 drafts (1965-2004), 67.1 percent of the 1,045 first-round picks have played at least one game in the majors.
The best draft for producing first-round big leaguers was 1990, which went 22-for-26. The first eight players selected, starting with Chipper Jones (Braves), reached the majors, and only Ron Walden (Dodgers), Eric Christopherson (Giants), Tom Nevers (Astros) and Don Peters (Athletics) fell short. The worst first round for big leaguers was 1999, which went 14-for-30 and is the only draft to fall short of 50 percent. Outfielder-turned-pitcher Rick Asadoorian (Red Sox) was the only other remaining 1999 first-rounder active last season, and the Dodgers cut him loose in June.
In terms of significant careers (1,000 at-bats, 300 innings or 100 pitching appearances), 42.1 percent of the first-rounders from 1965-2004 have achieved that distinction. Another 15-30 players from those drafts, such as Josh Hamilton, should reach those milestones, which will move the percentage closer to 44 percent.
The 1993 first round did the best job of producing significant big leaguers, going 17-for-28. That draft began with the best No. 1 overall pick ever, Alex Rodriguez (Mariners), and also included Billy Wagner (Astros), Derrek Lee (Padres), Chris Carpenter (Blue Jays), Torii Hunter (Twins) and the unsigned Jason Varitek (Twins).
Scouts thought the 2000 talent pool was disappointing at the time, and they have been proven correct. Just five of the 30 first-rounders have become significant big leaguers, most notably No. 1 overall pick Adrian Gonzalez (Marlins) and Chase Utley (Phillies). Unless two out of Billy Traber (Mets), Sean Burnett (Pirates) and Chris Bootcheck (Angels) reach the necessary milestones, 2000 will go down as the worst first round for significant careers, eclipsing 1975, which went 5-for-24. BA
The best draft for producing first-round big leaguers was 1990, which went 22-for-26. The first eight players selected, starting with Chipper Jones (Braves), reached the majors, and only Ron Walden (Dodgers), Eric Christopherson (Giants), Tom Nevers (Astros) and Don Peters (Athletics) fell short. The worst first round for big leaguers was 1999, which went 14-for-30 and is the only draft to fall short of 50 percent. Outfielder-turned-pitcher Rick Asadoorian (Red Sox) was the only other remaining 1999 first-rounder active last season, and the Dodgers cut him loose in June.
In terms of significant careers (1,000 at-bats, 300 innings or 100 pitching appearances), 42.1 percent of the first-rounders from 1965-2004 have achieved that distinction. Another 15-30 players from those drafts, such as Josh Hamilton, should reach those milestones, which will move the percentage closer to 44 percent.
The 1993 first round did the best job of producing significant big leaguers, going 17-for-28. That draft began with the best No. 1 overall pick ever, Alex Rodriguez (Mariners), and also included Billy Wagner (Astros), Derrek Lee (Padres), Chris Carpenter (Blue Jays), Torii Hunter (Twins) and the unsigned Jason Varitek (Twins).
Scouts thought the 2000 talent pool was disappointing at the time, and they have been proven correct. Just five of the 30 first-rounders have become significant big leaguers, most notably No. 1 overall pick Adrian Gonzalez (Marlins) and Chase Utley (Phillies). Unless two out of Billy Traber (Mets), Sean Burnett (Pirates) and Chris Bootcheck (Angels) reach the necessary milestones, 2000 will go down as the worst first round for significant careers, eclipsing 1975, which went 5-for-24. BA
The philosophy
The Rockies tend to stock up on pitching, although they've had more success developing those who have had collegiate experience. Righty Aaron Cook (second round, 1997) is the only pitcher selected by the club out of high school on the team's 40-man roster. The Rockies have been more successful signing teenagers from Latin America, where they have collected many arms, including current Colorado pitchers Ubaldo Jimenez, Manuel Corpas and Franklin Morales.
The scoop
Rockies scouting director Bill Schmidt sees a clear difference between this year's Draft and last year's.
"There's some college pitching and some high school pitching, but the really top-flight college bats are what's lacking this year," Schmidt said. "If there is a 40-home run guy or someone who develops that kind of power, I'd be surprised."
First-round buzz
Mayo projects the Rockies' top pick will be Missouri righty Kyle Gibson, but mentions North Carolina righty Alex White as a possibility. Arizona State righty Eric Leake is intriguing. If you're pie-in-the-sky wishing, a good one to wish for would be North Carolina first baseman-outfielder Dustin Ackley, who shouldn't fall out of the top five but could if there is a run on pitchers. He is considered a good hitter, but not a feared hitter.
Also, ESPN draft guru Keith Law says the Rockies are expected to take a college player, with Sacramento State center fielder Tim Wheeler and North Carolina pitcher Alex White on their shortlist.
Prep right-hander Matt Hobgood is emerging as a possibility for the 32nd pick overall
Shopping list
The Rockies have been responsive to their deficiencies. The current roster lacks speed outside of center fielder Dexter Fowler, and infielder Eric Young Jr. is close. The Rockies need what everyone needs -- pitching and power. Schmidt said it's an outgrowth of the "best player available philosophy."
Trend watch
The Rockies' history says they're heavy on college players, but they have received contribution from high schoolers Ian Stewart and Fowler this year. Young, an infielder, played one year of junior college before signing (back when that was allowed), and can be counted as well. MiLB.com
The Rockies tend to stock up on pitching, although they've had more success developing those who have had collegiate experience. Righty Aaron Cook (second round, 1997) is the only pitcher selected by the club out of high school on the team's 40-man roster. The Rockies have been more successful signing teenagers from Latin America, where they have collected many arms, including current Colorado pitchers Ubaldo Jimenez, Manuel Corpas and Franklin Morales.
The scoop
Rockies scouting director Bill Schmidt sees a clear difference between this year's Draft and last year's.
"There's some college pitching and some high school pitching, but the really top-flight college bats are what's lacking this year," Schmidt said. "If there is a 40-home run guy or someone who develops that kind of power, I'd be surprised."
First-round buzz
Mayo projects the Rockies' top pick will be Missouri righty Kyle Gibson, but mentions North Carolina righty Alex White as a possibility. Arizona State righty Eric Leake is intriguing. If you're pie-in-the-sky wishing, a good one to wish for would be North Carolina first baseman-outfielder Dustin Ackley, who shouldn't fall out of the top five but could if there is a run on pitchers. He is considered a good hitter, but not a feared hitter.
Also, ESPN draft guru Keith Law says the Rockies are expected to take a college player, with Sacramento State center fielder Tim Wheeler and North Carolina pitcher Alex White on their shortlist.
Prep right-hander Matt Hobgood is emerging as a possibility for the 32nd pick overall
Shopping list
The Rockies have been responsive to their deficiencies. The current roster lacks speed outside of center fielder Dexter Fowler, and infielder Eric Young Jr. is close. The Rockies need what everyone needs -- pitching and power. Schmidt said it's an outgrowth of the "best player available philosophy."
Trend watch
The Rockies' history says they're heavy on college players, but they have received contribution from high schoolers Ian Stewart and Fowler this year. Young, an infielder, played one year of junior college before signing (back when that was allowed), and can be counted as well. MiLB.com
1st Pick
Tyler Matzek, LHP
Fastball: Matzek was 90-94 from the windup and 86-88 from the stretch, though he touched 92 and 93, adding and subtracting when he wanted to.
Fastball movement: It has average life. He kept it down in the zone, moved in to right-handed hitters and had some sinking tail.
Curve: He threw it between 71-78 mph. It was only good at around 76 mph and he would snap one off that was above-average on occasion.
Slider: He threw a spinning cutter that averaged 82 mph. Occasionally, he'd get out in front of it and spin it at 85-86 mph with some hard bite.
Changeup: He only threw a couple and felt for it a little.
Control: It wasn't pinpoint, but overall it was good. He left a few balls up in the zone. He tried to throw one curve for a strike and the harder curve to chase and was above-average with that
Poise: He was very business-like on the mound, focused on the task at hand. He seems to respond to the situation.
Physical Description: Matzek has a natural, athletic build with strength in his legs and hips. He's lean, but showed some good weight in his core area.
Medical Update: Healthy.
Strengths: He has everything you'd want to see within him, including at least three average or above pitches. When he wants to, he has a really good idea of how to pitch.
Weaknesses: Sometimes seems like he just does what he needs to do to get by. He may have been throwing to the gun too much in the past.
Summary: When Matzek is locked in, it's easy to argue that he's one of the -- if not the -- top high school lefty in this Draft class. With a fastball that reaches 95 mph and two different breaking pitches, he's got the tools necessary to succeed. The one knock is that it seems at times that he's just doing enough to get by. When focused, he really knows how to pitch and put away hitters. It's a package that should go pretty quickly on Draft day. MLB.com
---
Many prospect publications and journalists seem to think Matzek is the top prep prospect available for 2009, and it is really hard to go too far out of my way to argue against them. Matzek and Matthew Purke actually have similar profiles before you see them in person. They're both left-handed pitchers in the 6'3", 180-190 range. Matzek has a little more meat on his bones, or at least isn't as long and wiry strong as Purke is. Matzek is also a talented overall athlete that could draw interest for his bat if he wasn't so talented as a pitcher. He too throws in the low-90s while reaching the 93-94 range, although there isn't much movement to this pitch, although at those readings you could argue that it doesn't need to move to be successful. While he does throw a very nice slider, he also spins a true, hard-breaking curveball that typically sits in the mid-70s. His changeup gives him a very polished four-pitch repertoire. Matzek's arm angle is more traditional, and his mechanics are picture perfect. He pitches aggressively and he isn't afraid to come inside on right-handed hitters. . brewerfan.net
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Scouting Report: Matzek was virtually unknown until a preseason scrimmage last year, when he squared off against righthander Gerritt Cole, who became a 2008 first-rounder and is now at UCLA. Matzek was fantastic, striking out five of six hitters in two innings as 40 scouts were crammed into the bleachers, whispering, "Who is this guy?" He's anonymous no more. He starred in the 2008 Aflac game and at showcases both nationally and in Southern California, and while he's committed to Oregon he could be the first high school player drafted. With a rare blend of quality stuff, pitching smarts and ease of delivery, he may be the best prep lefty from Southern California since Cole Hamels in 2002. Similar in build and style to Angels southpaw Joe Saunders, Matzek features a 90-93 mph fastball, which peaks at 94, as well as a sharp-breaking curveball. He has flashed a changeup and slider in the past, but had not used them much this spring. Several crosscheckers hoped to see a more advanced feel for pitching and sharper secondary stuff, and Matzek had a few indifferent outings this year, struggling with his command and experiencing a dip in velocity, perhaps due to a blister on his pitching hand, which has since healed. Matzek's arm action is wonderfully smooth, and the ball leaves with his hand with ease, though he has a tendency to open up too soon. With a nearly stiff front leg landing, his fastball will often sail up and out of the strike zone, but any flaws are considered correctable. BA.com
---
Rockies snagged the perfect player for this spot in their draft. Had this player been there for them in any other draft, the Rockies probably would have passed. This is because they have extra picks this year due to Brian Fuentes free agency compensation and they will be rewarded with a number 12 pick next year. In other words, if they can't sign Matzek, then the draft isn't wasted. In a sense, it gives them a little leverage in the contract talks. roxhead.com
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2nd Pick
Fastball movement: It has average life. He kept it down in the zone, moved in to right-handed hitters and had some sinking tail.
Curve: He threw it between 71-78 mph. It was only good at around 76 mph and he would snap one off that was above-average on occasion.
Slider: He threw a spinning cutter that averaged 82 mph. Occasionally, he'd get out in front of it and spin it at 85-86 mph with some hard bite.
Changeup: He only threw a couple and felt for it a little.
Control: It wasn't pinpoint, but overall it was good. He left a few balls up in the zone. He tried to throw one curve for a strike and the harder curve to chase and was above-average with that
Poise: He was very business-like on the mound, focused on the task at hand. He seems to respond to the situation.
Physical Description: Matzek has a natural, athletic build with strength in his legs and hips. He's lean, but showed some good weight in his core area.
Medical Update: Healthy.
Strengths: He has everything you'd want to see within him, including at least three average or above pitches. When he wants to, he has a really good idea of how to pitch.
Weaknesses: Sometimes seems like he just does what he needs to do to get by. He may have been throwing to the gun too much in the past.
Summary: When Matzek is locked in, it's easy to argue that he's one of the -- if not the -- top high school lefty in this Draft class. With a fastball that reaches 95 mph and two different breaking pitches, he's got the tools necessary to succeed. The one knock is that it seems at times that he's just doing enough to get by. When focused, he really knows how to pitch and put away hitters. It's a package that should go pretty quickly on Draft day. MLB.com
---
Many prospect publications and journalists seem to think Matzek is the top prep prospect available for 2009, and it is really hard to go too far out of my way to argue against them. Matzek and Matthew Purke actually have similar profiles before you see them in person. They're both left-handed pitchers in the 6'3", 180-190 range. Matzek has a little more meat on his bones, or at least isn't as long and wiry strong as Purke is. Matzek is also a talented overall athlete that could draw interest for his bat if he wasn't so talented as a pitcher. He too throws in the low-90s while reaching the 93-94 range, although there isn't much movement to this pitch, although at those readings you could argue that it doesn't need to move to be successful. While he does throw a very nice slider, he also spins a true, hard-breaking curveball that typically sits in the mid-70s. His changeup gives him a very polished four-pitch repertoire. Matzek's arm angle is more traditional, and his mechanics are picture perfect. He pitches aggressively and he isn't afraid to come inside on right-handed hitters. . brewerfan.net
---
Scouting Report: Matzek was virtually unknown until a preseason scrimmage last year, when he squared off against righthander Gerritt Cole, who became a 2008 first-rounder and is now at UCLA. Matzek was fantastic, striking out five of six hitters in two innings as 40 scouts were crammed into the bleachers, whispering, "Who is this guy?" He's anonymous no more. He starred in the 2008 Aflac game and at showcases both nationally and in Southern California, and while he's committed to Oregon he could be the first high school player drafted. With a rare blend of quality stuff, pitching smarts and ease of delivery, he may be the best prep lefty from Southern California since Cole Hamels in 2002. Similar in build and style to Angels southpaw Joe Saunders, Matzek features a 90-93 mph fastball, which peaks at 94, as well as a sharp-breaking curveball. He has flashed a changeup and slider in the past, but had not used them much this spring. Several crosscheckers hoped to see a more advanced feel for pitching and sharper secondary stuff, and Matzek had a few indifferent outings this year, struggling with his command and experiencing a dip in velocity, perhaps due to a blister on his pitching hand, which has since healed. Matzek's arm action is wonderfully smooth, and the ball leaves with his hand with ease, though he has a tendency to open up too soon. With a nearly stiff front leg landing, his fastball will often sail up and out of the strike zone, but any flaws are considered correctable. BA.com
---
Rockies snagged the perfect player for this spot in their draft. Had this player been there for them in any other draft, the Rockies probably would have passed. This is because they have extra picks this year due to Brian Fuentes free agency compensation and they will be rewarded with a number 12 pick next year. In other words, if they can't sign Matzek, then the draft isn't wasted. In a sense, it gives them a little leverage in the contract talks. roxhead.com
------------------
2nd Pick
Tim Wheeler, CF
Hitting ability: Wheeler makes consistent contact from the left side of the plate.
Power: Power's not a big part of his game, but he might have some, as he showed in his three-homer game.
Running speed: Has plus speed.
Base running: He's very good on the bases and knows how to steal.
Arm strength: Has an average throwing arm from the outfield.
Fielding: Has the tools necessary to be a good center fielder.
Range: Uses his speed to run down balls well.
Physical Description: Wheeler is long and wiry, a kind of Von Hayes body type.
Medical Update: Healthy.
Strengths: His speed and his ability to make contact.
Weaknesses: He doesn't seem to have much power.
Summary: Wheeler is a pretty advanced college hitter whose best assets are his ability to make contact and his speed. He should be the type who can hit at or near the top of a lineup with the potential to be a plus base-stealer. He uses his speed well in center and has the skills to stay there. Without much power, he probably won't be off the charts, but could be a very solid college draftee in June. MLB.com
---
Scouting Report: Among California scouts, a "Sac State guy" is typically an undersized, modestly talented but scrappy and energetic player, short on tools but long on hustle. At showcase events, it's common to hear scouts use the term as a shorthand way of identifying such players. No Sac State player has ever been drafted above the fourth round, but Wheeler will smash all of those precedents and cliches. At 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds with a strong and athletic frame and lefthanded bat, he's a prototypical corner outfield prospect. His wiry build has room for further projection. Scouts suspected Wheeler was poised for a breakout after a strong summer in the Cape Cod League, but he has exceeded even those expectations, batting .396/.500/.786 with 18 homers and 69 RBIs. Wheeler's bat is by far his primary tool. He projects to be a plus big league hitter, with power that is a shade above-average. An average arm and speed that's just a tick above-average probably mean he's best suited for left field in pro ball. Scouts laud his baserunning instincts. Scouts who saw Wheeler last year, or even earlier this year, would not have pegged him as a first-round candidate, but as the season has progressed his bat has made the prospect more and more likely. BA.com
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There was talk that the Rockies may have taken Wheeler with their first pick. Imagine the surprise when he was still there with the 32nd pick? Even though the system has some very good CF prospects already, you never want to skip a possible steal. This is a nice pick indeed. roxhead.com
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3rd Pick
Power: Power's not a big part of his game, but he might have some, as he showed in his three-homer game.
Running speed: Has plus speed.
Base running: He's very good on the bases and knows how to steal.
Arm strength: Has an average throwing arm from the outfield.
Fielding: Has the tools necessary to be a good center fielder.
Range: Uses his speed to run down balls well.
Physical Description: Wheeler is long and wiry, a kind of Von Hayes body type.
Medical Update: Healthy.
Strengths: His speed and his ability to make contact.
Weaknesses: He doesn't seem to have much power.
Summary: Wheeler is a pretty advanced college hitter whose best assets are his ability to make contact and his speed. He should be the type who can hit at or near the top of a lineup with the potential to be a plus base-stealer. He uses his speed well in center and has the skills to stay there. Without much power, he probably won't be off the charts, but could be a very solid college draftee in June. MLB.com
---
Scouting Report: Among California scouts, a "Sac State guy" is typically an undersized, modestly talented but scrappy and energetic player, short on tools but long on hustle. At showcase events, it's common to hear scouts use the term as a shorthand way of identifying such players. No Sac State player has ever been drafted above the fourth round, but Wheeler will smash all of those precedents and cliches. At 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds with a strong and athletic frame and lefthanded bat, he's a prototypical corner outfield prospect. His wiry build has room for further projection. Scouts suspected Wheeler was poised for a breakout after a strong summer in the Cape Cod League, but he has exceeded even those expectations, batting .396/.500/.786 with 18 homers and 69 RBIs. Wheeler's bat is by far his primary tool. He projects to be a plus big league hitter, with power that is a shade above-average. An average arm and speed that's just a tick above-average probably mean he's best suited for left field in pro ball. Scouts laud his baserunning instincts. Scouts who saw Wheeler last year, or even earlier this year, would not have pegged him as a first-round candidate, but as the season has progressed his bat has made the prospect more and more likely. BA.com
---
There was talk that the Rockies may have taken Wheeler with their first pick. Imagine the surprise when he was still there with the 32nd pick? Even though the system has some very good CF prospects already, you never want to skip a possible steal. This is a nice pick indeed. roxhead.com
-------------
3rd Pick
Rex Brothers, LHP
Fastball: Brothers' fastball has been as high as 96, maybe even touching 97 mph. He gets swings-and-misses with it.
Fastball movement: He's got explosive four-seam life.
Slider: This is a wipeout pitch with very good depth, late and hard. He throws it in the low-to-mid-80s with hard bite. It was a chase pitch in the past. Now he's throwing it for a called strike more.
Changeup: Has one, and will show it between innings and in the bullpen, but he doesn't need it at this level. There's a chance he can develop it later.
Control: Still below-average, but it's improved recently as he's showing a better understanding of how to pitch.
Poise: In the past, he used to just try to throw harder to solve problems. Then, in pressure situations, he'd come out of his delivery and his command would suffer. Now, he seems more mature and has demonstrated an ability to pitch out of trouble.
Physical Description: Brothers is similar to a Mike Stanton type lefty (back when he was an amateur). He's not tall, but he's muscular and has strong legs.
Medical Update: Healthy.
Strengths: Plus fastball from a quick arm that's a strikeout pitch; above-average breaking ball that he now throws for strikes. He seems to be maturing on the mound.
Weaknesses: No changeup to speak of rigtht now. There's some effort to his delivery, but he can maintain velocity deep into starts.
Summary: Brothers was gaining as much "helium" as any pitcher in the draft class as the spring wore on. He'd always been intriguing because of his arm strength that delivers a fastball that can touch 96-97 mph and a pretty good slider. He took a leap up this season, thanks to a better understanding of how to pitch and the ability to find the strike zone more consistently. If that continues throughout the remainder of his season, he'll go off the board in a hurry. MLB.com
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Hard throwing lefty starters are gold. The Rox grabed 2 of them in the draft. Brothers is a tough kid who bulldogs his way to wins. The fans will love him. roxhead.com
Round 2 -- Nolan Arenado, 3B, Lake Forest (Calif.) El Toro High School: Arenado's El Toro squad entered the season ranked No. 2 in the nation by Baseball America and went 22-6. Arenado led the way with a .571 batting average, five home runs, 14 doubles and a triple. Arenado has experience at catcher, but Schmidt said the Rockies want to see him at third base.
Round 3 -- Ben Paulsen, 1B, Clemson: Paulsen batted .367 with 95 hits, 18 doubles, four triples, 13 home runs and 61 RBIs for the Tigers in 2009. Schmidt said the Rockies like his athletic ability, which means he can move from first base if necessary.
Round 4 -- Kent Matthes, OF, University of Alabama: Led the NCAA Division I with 28 home runs. He hit .358 with 81 RBI, was 13-for-16 on stolen bases and was a unanimous selection as the SEC Player of the Year in voting by coaches. A senior, Matthes is considered signable.
Matthes has raw power that blossomed this year. Coaches felt he made major strides after Crimson Tide tour of Cuba, where he faced advanced pitching. No major flaws in his swing, but he needs to be more patient. A solid runner with strong athleticism, he has enough arm to play right field but could be a major plus in left field.
---Day 2
Round 5 -- Joseph Sanders, 3B, Auburn: The junior hit .320 and led the Tigers with 19 home runs and 55 RBIs in 2009. Sanders was on pace to break the school record for home runs, but he was hit in the face by a pitch and missed three weeks. In 2008, Sanders scored the game-winning run for the Harwich Marines, the 2008 Cape Cod League champions. He hit .273 with four home runs and 17 RBIs. He was selected to the Cape Cod League All-Star team as a utility player. Auburn baseball coach John Pawlowski has said that Sanders told him that he would return if he's not drafted in the first seven rounds.
Round 6 -- Christopher Balcolm-Miller, RHP, West Valley College: The sophomore was the Vikings' best pitcher in 2009, as he went 7-5 with a 3.02 ERA and 106 strikeouts in 83 1/3 innings. The Royals selected Balcolm-Miller from the two-year school in the 35th round in 2008.
Round 7 -- Erik Stavert, RHP, Oregon: The junior made his debut with the Ducks in 2009 after spending two seasons at Chabot College, a two-year school. Stavert went 5-6 with a 3.04 ERA, earning more than one-third of Oregon's 14 victories. Drafted by the D-backs in the 42nd round in 2008, he's expected to forgo his senior season.
Round 8 -- Rob Scahill, RHP, Bradley: The Braves ace boasts a mid-90s fastball and was ranked as the 10th-best prospect in the Great Lakes League by Baseball America in 2008. Scahill, a redshirt junior went 3-3 with a 4.05 ERA, but he was a perfect 3-0 with an 0.86 ERA at home. He was selected in the 48th round by the Yankees in 2008.
Round 9 -- Thomas Musick, LHP, Houston: After undergoing Tommy John elbow ligament replacement surgery in 2006, Musick made the Conference USA All-Freshman team in 2007. Musick went 5-7 with a 5.97 ERA in 2009. He was drafted in the 46th round by the Astros in 2005.
Round 10 -- Charles Ruiz, RHP, Long Beach State: After spending two years at Chabot College, Ruiz took over the closer role for the Dirtbags. He finished 2009 with 11 saves to complement his 2-2 record and 3.60 ERA. Ruiz utilized his filthy sinker to strike out 42 in 25 innings. Head coach Mike Weathers doesn't expect Ruiz to return to Long Beach State.
Round 11 -- Avery Barnes, LF, Florida: The first Gator drafted in 2009, Barnes batted a team-high .364 and led the team with 18 stolen bases. He also swatted eight home runs after hitting five in his first three years.
Round 12 -- Jared Clark, 1B, Cal State Fullerton: The veteran first baseman was clutch in 2009, driving in a team-high 81 RBIs to go with his .363 batting average and 12 home runs. In 2007, he tore his ACL and missed the season. This will be the fourth and final time he's been drafted.
Round 13 -- Paul Bargas, LHP, UC Riverside: After having ERAs over 6.00 in his first two seasons, Bargas made major strides in his junior campaign. Bargas showed plenty of control, walking only nine in 75 innings. He finished 2009 with a 5-3 record and a 4.44 ERA. He's currently recovering from a sprained ankle.
Round 14 -- Jeffrey Squier, SS, Mississippi Valley State: Squier is coming home, sort of. Squier is a Sterling, Colo., native, and he was named to the Southwestern Athletic Conference's First Team in 2009. The speedy shortstop led the SWAC with 41 stolen bases while batting .352.
Round 15 -- Tyler Gagnon, RHP, Diablo Valley College: Gagnon broke his arm his senior year in high school, but he has since bounced back. In 2009, he led the two-year school with a 3.20 ERA.
Round 16 -- Dom Altobelli, 3B, Illinois: The First-Team All-Big Ten selection finished his senior season hitting .361 with eight home runs and a team-high 53 RBIs. Altobelli comes from a baseball family, as his father, Mike, played three years in the Atheltics' organization, reaching the big leagues in 1981 and playing for Billy Martin.
Round 17 -- Josh Hungerman, LHP, Cleveland State: Hungerman meets the Rockies, part two. The Rockies selected Hungerman with their final pick (50th round) in 2008. He was selected to the All-Horizon League Team, but not as a pitcher, where he was 5-6 with a 4.60 ERA, but as a designated hitter. Hungerman batted .345 and had team-leading totals of 11 home runs and 50 RBIs. Signed
Round 18 -- Richard Testa, RHP, Lamar: After spending all of 2008 in the bullpen and compiling a 3-2 record with a 6.55 ERA, Testa spent 2009 in both the rotation and the 'pen. He improved to 8-3 with a 4.13 ERA and struck out a team-high 84 in 76 1/3 innings in 2009.
Round 19 -- Dustin Garneau, C, Cal State Fullerton: Garneau is a strong-armed catcher whom Fullerton assistant coach Jason Gill said is blue-collar and a hard worker. Garneau hit only .293 in 2009, but as he told the Los Angeles Times, "They take my offense pretty much as a bonus."
Round 20 -- William Tarleton, C, Elon: The senior hit .293 with 13 home runs and 47 RBIs. The Elon coaching staff said Tarleton's defense has been improving. His father, Mark, has been an associate scout for the Mariners in the past year.
Round 21 -- Chandler Laurent, RF, Delgado College: The sophomore from Louisiana's oldest and largest community college had a stellar 2009, leading the team with a .431 batting average. He also hit eight home runs and stole 23 bases.
Round 22 -- David Born, LHP, Long Beach State: Born was little-used in 2008, but he made 30 appearances in 2009. The reliever went 2-0 with a 2.66 ERA and struck out 23 in 20 1/3 innings.
Round 23 -- Jose Rivera, 2B, Universidad Interamericana: Rivera is an infielder from Puerto Rico who can also play shortstop. He's been clocked getting to first base in 4.61 seconds. MLB.com
Not much here. Weak arm. Maybe a 2B in the future.. certainly not a SS. roxhead.com
----
Round 24 -- Joey Wong, SS, Oregon State: Wong batted just .255 in 2009, but he's a slick-fielding shortstop who committed six errors in 2009. He will play for the Falmouth Commodores of the Cape Cod League for the second straight year. He hit .256 in his first go-round. According to the Oregonian, Wong is expected to return to Oregon for his senior year and improve his stock. MLB.com
Nice looking player. Should have been drafted higher. roxhead.com
---
Round 25 -- Trevor Gibson, RHP, San Jose State: Gibson is a reliever who went 3-1 with a 4.72 ERA in 2009. The hard-throwing right-hander can also close, posting a pair of saves.
Round 26 -- Rhett Ballard, RHP, Virginia Tech: Head coach Pete Hughes called the 6-foot-6, 244-pounder "one of the most physical impressive specimens he's ever coached." Ballard, the ace of the Hokies' staff, went 7-4 with a 4.05 ERA. He finished his career fourth on Virginia Tech's all-time strikeout list with 263 strikeouts, eight more than Angels pitcher Joe Saunders.
Round 27 -- Daniel Perkins, RHP, Delaware State: After missing all of 2008 due to injury, Perkins bounced back in 2009, posting a 5-5 record, a 2.65 ERA and throwing five complete games. Perkins was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Pitcher of the Year. Perkins is the first Delaware State player to be drafted since 2004.
Round 28 -- David Dinatale, LF, Miami (Fla.): Dinatale batted .311 in 2009, and is a sure-handed outfielder who has committed only one error in his three years as a Hurricane since transferring from the University of Central Florida. He was drafted in the 22nd round by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2005.
Round 29 -- McKenzie Dickerson, OF, Meridian Community College: Known to many as Corey, Dickerson batted an impressive .381 in his first year of college ball, knocked 15 home runs as well as 21 doubles and had 54 RBIs. Dickerson also led his team with 14 stolen bases.
Round 30 -- Bryce Massanari, C, Georgia: On paper, the Rockies may have gotten a steal here, as Massanari, a preseason All-American, batted .305, slammed 19 home runs and had 57 RBIs in 2009. Massanari was selected in the 41st round by the Phillies in 2004.
31 ROUND
No. 931 RHP Clint Tilford, University of Kentucky
32 ROUND
No. 961 LHP Steve Junker, Bellevue (Neb) College
33 ROUND
No. 991 RHP Coty Woods, Middle Tennessee State
34 ROUND
No. 1021 C Brandon Whitby, Prairie View A&M
35 ROUND
No. 1051 OF Tym Pearson, Thurston (Springfield, Ore.) HS
36 ROUND
No. 1081 OF Jarrett Higgins, Bellaire (Tx) HS
37 ROUND
No. 1111 OF John Thomas, Pace Academy (Ga) HS
38 ROUND
No. 1141 C Brett Hambright, Riverside (Ca) CC
39 ROUND
No. 1171 RHP Eric Federico, Cal State Stanislaus
40 ROUND
No. 1201 C Jason Bagoly, Austintown-Fitch (Ohio) HS
41 ROUND
No. 1231 3B Matthew Sanders, Clemson University
42 ROUND
No. 1261 2B Joseph Scott, Cal State Fullerton
43 ROUND
No. 1291 OF John Broyles, Fayetteville (Ark) HS
44 ROUND
No. 1321 OF Micah Green, Cherokee Trail (Co) HS
45 ROUND
No. 1351 C Heath Holliday, Bixby (Ok) HS
46 ROUND
No. 1381 3B Tyler Wallace, Eaton (Co) HS
47 ROUND
No. 1411 1B Sterling Monfort, Eaton (Co) HS
48 ROUND
No. 1441 RHP Clinton McKinney, Clemson University
49 ROUND
No. 1471 C Mark Tracy, Duquesne University
50 ROUND
No. 1501 OF Nathan Hines, Middle Tennessee State
Fastball movement: He's got explosive four-seam life.
Slider: This is a wipeout pitch with very good depth, late and hard. He throws it in the low-to-mid-80s with hard bite. It was a chase pitch in the past. Now he's throwing it for a called strike more.
Changeup: Has one, and will show it between innings and in the bullpen, but he doesn't need it at this level. There's a chance he can develop it later.
Control: Still below-average, but it's improved recently as he's showing a better understanding of how to pitch.
Poise: In the past, he used to just try to throw harder to solve problems. Then, in pressure situations, he'd come out of his delivery and his command would suffer. Now, he seems more mature and has demonstrated an ability to pitch out of trouble.
Physical Description: Brothers is similar to a Mike Stanton type lefty (back when he was an amateur). He's not tall, but he's muscular and has strong legs.
Medical Update: Healthy.
Strengths: Plus fastball from a quick arm that's a strikeout pitch; above-average breaking ball that he now throws for strikes. He seems to be maturing on the mound.
Weaknesses: No changeup to speak of rigtht now. There's some effort to his delivery, but he can maintain velocity deep into starts.
Summary: Brothers was gaining as much "helium" as any pitcher in the draft class as the spring wore on. He'd always been intriguing because of his arm strength that delivers a fastball that can touch 96-97 mph and a pretty good slider. He took a leap up this season, thanks to a better understanding of how to pitch and the ability to find the strike zone more consistently. If that continues throughout the remainder of his season, he'll go off the board in a hurry. MLB.com
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Hard throwing lefty starters are gold. The Rox grabed 2 of them in the draft. Brothers is a tough kid who bulldogs his way to wins. The fans will love him. roxhead.com
Round 2 -- Nolan Arenado, 3B, Lake Forest (Calif.) El Toro High School: Arenado's El Toro squad entered the season ranked No. 2 in the nation by Baseball America and went 22-6. Arenado led the way with a .571 batting average, five home runs, 14 doubles and a triple. Arenado has experience at catcher, but Schmidt said the Rockies want to see him at third base.
Round 3 -- Ben Paulsen, 1B, Clemson: Paulsen batted .367 with 95 hits, 18 doubles, four triples, 13 home runs and 61 RBIs for the Tigers in 2009. Schmidt said the Rockies like his athletic ability, which means he can move from first base if necessary.
Round 4 -- Kent Matthes, OF, University of Alabama: Led the NCAA Division I with 28 home runs. He hit .358 with 81 RBI, was 13-for-16 on stolen bases and was a unanimous selection as the SEC Player of the Year in voting by coaches. A senior, Matthes is considered signable.
Matthes has raw power that blossomed this year. Coaches felt he made major strides after Crimson Tide tour of Cuba, where he faced advanced pitching. No major flaws in his swing, but he needs to be more patient. A solid runner with strong athleticism, he has enough arm to play right field but could be a major plus in left field.
---Day 2
Round 5 -- Joseph Sanders, 3B, Auburn: The junior hit .320 and led the Tigers with 19 home runs and 55 RBIs in 2009. Sanders was on pace to break the school record for home runs, but he was hit in the face by a pitch and missed three weeks. In 2008, Sanders scored the game-winning run for the Harwich Marines, the 2008 Cape Cod League champions. He hit .273 with four home runs and 17 RBIs. He was selected to the Cape Cod League All-Star team as a utility player. Auburn baseball coach John Pawlowski has said that Sanders told him that he would return if he's not drafted in the first seven rounds.
Round 6 -- Christopher Balcolm-Miller, RHP, West Valley College: The sophomore was the Vikings' best pitcher in 2009, as he went 7-5 with a 3.02 ERA and 106 strikeouts in 83 1/3 innings. The Royals selected Balcolm-Miller from the two-year school in the 35th round in 2008.
Round 7 -- Erik Stavert, RHP, Oregon: The junior made his debut with the Ducks in 2009 after spending two seasons at Chabot College, a two-year school. Stavert went 5-6 with a 3.04 ERA, earning more than one-third of Oregon's 14 victories. Drafted by the D-backs in the 42nd round in 2008, he's expected to forgo his senior season.
Round 8 -- Rob Scahill, RHP, Bradley: The Braves ace boasts a mid-90s fastball and was ranked as the 10th-best prospect in the Great Lakes League by Baseball America in 2008. Scahill, a redshirt junior went 3-3 with a 4.05 ERA, but he was a perfect 3-0 with an 0.86 ERA at home. He was selected in the 48th round by the Yankees in 2008.
Round 9 -- Thomas Musick, LHP, Houston: After undergoing Tommy John elbow ligament replacement surgery in 2006, Musick made the Conference USA All-Freshman team in 2007. Musick went 5-7 with a 5.97 ERA in 2009. He was drafted in the 46th round by the Astros in 2005.
Round 10 -- Charles Ruiz, RHP, Long Beach State: After spending two years at Chabot College, Ruiz took over the closer role for the Dirtbags. He finished 2009 with 11 saves to complement his 2-2 record and 3.60 ERA. Ruiz utilized his filthy sinker to strike out 42 in 25 innings. Head coach Mike Weathers doesn't expect Ruiz to return to Long Beach State.
Round 11 -- Avery Barnes, LF, Florida: The first Gator drafted in 2009, Barnes batted a team-high .364 and led the team with 18 stolen bases. He also swatted eight home runs after hitting five in his first three years.
Round 12 -- Jared Clark, 1B, Cal State Fullerton: The veteran first baseman was clutch in 2009, driving in a team-high 81 RBIs to go with his .363 batting average and 12 home runs. In 2007, he tore his ACL and missed the season. This will be the fourth and final time he's been drafted.
Round 13 -- Paul Bargas, LHP, UC Riverside: After having ERAs over 6.00 in his first two seasons, Bargas made major strides in his junior campaign. Bargas showed plenty of control, walking only nine in 75 innings. He finished 2009 with a 5-3 record and a 4.44 ERA. He's currently recovering from a sprained ankle.
Round 14 -- Jeffrey Squier, SS, Mississippi Valley State: Squier is coming home, sort of. Squier is a Sterling, Colo., native, and he was named to the Southwestern Athletic Conference's First Team in 2009. The speedy shortstop led the SWAC with 41 stolen bases while batting .352.
Round 15 -- Tyler Gagnon, RHP, Diablo Valley College: Gagnon broke his arm his senior year in high school, but he has since bounced back. In 2009, he led the two-year school with a 3.20 ERA.
Round 16 -- Dom Altobelli, 3B, Illinois: The First-Team All-Big Ten selection finished his senior season hitting .361 with eight home runs and a team-high 53 RBIs. Altobelli comes from a baseball family, as his father, Mike, played three years in the Atheltics' organization, reaching the big leagues in 1981 and playing for Billy Martin.
Round 17 -- Josh Hungerman, LHP, Cleveland State: Hungerman meets the Rockies, part two. The Rockies selected Hungerman with their final pick (50th round) in 2008. He was selected to the All-Horizon League Team, but not as a pitcher, where he was 5-6 with a 4.60 ERA, but as a designated hitter. Hungerman batted .345 and had team-leading totals of 11 home runs and 50 RBIs. Signed
Round 18 -- Richard Testa, RHP, Lamar: After spending all of 2008 in the bullpen and compiling a 3-2 record with a 6.55 ERA, Testa spent 2009 in both the rotation and the 'pen. He improved to 8-3 with a 4.13 ERA and struck out a team-high 84 in 76 1/3 innings in 2009.
Round 19 -- Dustin Garneau, C, Cal State Fullerton: Garneau is a strong-armed catcher whom Fullerton assistant coach Jason Gill said is blue-collar and a hard worker. Garneau hit only .293 in 2009, but as he told the Los Angeles Times, "They take my offense pretty much as a bonus."
Round 20 -- William Tarleton, C, Elon: The senior hit .293 with 13 home runs and 47 RBIs. The Elon coaching staff said Tarleton's defense has been improving. His father, Mark, has been an associate scout for the Mariners in the past year.
Round 21 -- Chandler Laurent, RF, Delgado College: The sophomore from Louisiana's oldest and largest community college had a stellar 2009, leading the team with a .431 batting average. He also hit eight home runs and stole 23 bases.
Round 22 -- David Born, LHP, Long Beach State: Born was little-used in 2008, but he made 30 appearances in 2009. The reliever went 2-0 with a 2.66 ERA and struck out 23 in 20 1/3 innings.
Round 23 -- Jose Rivera, 2B, Universidad Interamericana: Rivera is an infielder from Puerto Rico who can also play shortstop. He's been clocked getting to first base in 4.61 seconds. MLB.com
Not much here. Weak arm. Maybe a 2B in the future.. certainly not a SS. roxhead.com
----
Round 24 -- Joey Wong, SS, Oregon State: Wong batted just .255 in 2009, but he's a slick-fielding shortstop who committed six errors in 2009. He will play for the Falmouth Commodores of the Cape Cod League for the second straight year. He hit .256 in his first go-round. According to the Oregonian, Wong is expected to return to Oregon for his senior year and improve his stock. MLB.com
Nice looking player. Should have been drafted higher. roxhead.com
---
Round 25 -- Trevor Gibson, RHP, San Jose State: Gibson is a reliever who went 3-1 with a 4.72 ERA in 2009. The hard-throwing right-hander can also close, posting a pair of saves.
Round 26 -- Rhett Ballard, RHP, Virginia Tech: Head coach Pete Hughes called the 6-foot-6, 244-pounder "one of the most physical impressive specimens he's ever coached." Ballard, the ace of the Hokies' staff, went 7-4 with a 4.05 ERA. He finished his career fourth on Virginia Tech's all-time strikeout list with 263 strikeouts, eight more than Angels pitcher Joe Saunders.
Round 27 -- Daniel Perkins, RHP, Delaware State: After missing all of 2008 due to injury, Perkins bounced back in 2009, posting a 5-5 record, a 2.65 ERA and throwing five complete games. Perkins was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Pitcher of the Year. Perkins is the first Delaware State player to be drafted since 2004.
Round 28 -- David Dinatale, LF, Miami (Fla.): Dinatale batted .311 in 2009, and is a sure-handed outfielder who has committed only one error in his three years as a Hurricane since transferring from the University of Central Florida. He was drafted in the 22nd round by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2005.
Round 29 -- McKenzie Dickerson, OF, Meridian Community College: Known to many as Corey, Dickerson batted an impressive .381 in his first year of college ball, knocked 15 home runs as well as 21 doubles and had 54 RBIs. Dickerson also led his team with 14 stolen bases.
Round 30 -- Bryce Massanari, C, Georgia: On paper, the Rockies may have gotten a steal here, as Massanari, a preseason All-American, batted .305, slammed 19 home runs and had 57 RBIs in 2009. Massanari was selected in the 41st round by the Phillies in 2004.
31 ROUND
No. 931 RHP Clint Tilford, University of Kentucky
32 ROUND
No. 961 LHP Steve Junker, Bellevue (Neb) College
33 ROUND
No. 991 RHP Coty Woods, Middle Tennessee State
34 ROUND
No. 1021 C Brandon Whitby, Prairie View A&M
35 ROUND
No. 1051 OF Tym Pearson, Thurston (Springfield, Ore.) HS
36 ROUND
No. 1081 OF Jarrett Higgins, Bellaire (Tx) HS
37 ROUND
No. 1111 OF John Thomas, Pace Academy (Ga) HS
38 ROUND
No. 1141 C Brett Hambright, Riverside (Ca) CC
39 ROUND
No. 1171 RHP Eric Federico, Cal State Stanislaus
40 ROUND
No. 1201 C Jason Bagoly, Austintown-Fitch (Ohio) HS
41 ROUND
No. 1231 3B Matthew Sanders, Clemson University
42 ROUND
No. 1261 2B Joseph Scott, Cal State Fullerton
43 ROUND
No. 1291 OF John Broyles, Fayetteville (Ark) HS
44 ROUND
No. 1321 OF Micah Green, Cherokee Trail (Co) HS
45 ROUND
No. 1351 C Heath Holliday, Bixby (Ok) HS
46 ROUND
No. 1381 3B Tyler Wallace, Eaton (Co) HS
47 ROUND
No. 1411 1B Sterling Monfort, Eaton (Co) HS
48 ROUND
No. 1441 RHP Clinton McKinney, Clemson University
49 ROUND
No. 1471 C Mark Tracy, Duquesne University
50 ROUND
No. 1501 OF Nathan Hines, Middle Tennessee State