Here is my sixth edition of my 2019 NBA Mock Draft.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Unfortunately, Anthony Davis still wants out of New Orleans and maybe they ship him to New York or Los Angeles for a bunch of young assets and either the third or fourth pick of the draft. That said, assuming they move on from Davis, they can start fresh with Williamson on board.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. There is the possibility the Knicks move this pick in a possible Anthony Davis trade, which would be a win for both parties involved as the Knicks would have a star to possibly pair with Kevin Durant (if he signs in New York).
4. Los Angeles Lakers- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play. There is a distinct possibility that this pick is shopped though as they find another star to pair with LeBron James.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Cavaliers are one of the lottery losers as they drop from two to five. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He and Collin Sexton would make an interesting backcourt.
6. Phoenix Suns- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with Garland. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered. A backcourt with him and Devin Booker would be interesting.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. In this scenario, he'd come in and possibly start on occasion depending on what they do at the five in free agency.
10. Atlanta Hawks- (via Dallas Mavericks)- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Hawks that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Timberwolves got themselves a player.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Hornets take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
13. Miami Heat- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The first Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
15. Detroit Pistons- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Pistons are a team that needs outside perimeter shooting badly. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
16. Orlando Magic- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball. The Magic are a team that needs good two-way guard help and Alexander-Walker can provide that.
17. Brooklyn Nets- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: The Nets finally own their first round pick after years of paying for the trade they made back in 2013 with the Celtics. Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor. The Nets also have a need at the position and Washington could possibly start for them down the road.
18. Indiana Pacers- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The Pacers depth at wing outside of Victor Oladipo is thin, especially if they let go of Bojan Bogdanovic this summer. Hachimura is somebody that would probably start out as a bench player and develop his way into a starter.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Spurs are a team that is very guard heavy and pretty big man heavy. Where they lack is forward depth and Johnson is somebody that can come in and develop with a team that is notoriously known for developing well. He can shoot the three-ball well, but he needs to develop more defensively, which the Spurs can help him with.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Ty Jerome, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Virginia: Jerome is somebody that was very good in Virginia's Championship run. He's someone that is versatile and can defend multiple positions very well. The Celtics might lose Kyrie Irving this summer so they can use more depth and versatility at the position.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
22. Boston Celtics- Bruno Fernando, Center, Maryland: Fernando is somebody that has tantalizing upside that averaged a double-double this past season. He has an NBA ready body and could be a contributor for the Celtics off the bench.
23. Utah Jazz- Admiral Schofield, Shooting Guard, Tennessee: Schofield was great this past season in college with his dedication and hard work. He is someone that can shoot the three ball well and rebounds well for his position. This would be a solid pick for the Jazz as he'd be someone that would provide energy off the bench.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Grant Williams, Power Forward, Tennessee: Williams, the two-time SEC Player of the Year, ends up in the area where he should be picked. He's someone who isn't athlete or has a good perimeter game, but he can score in the post and could adjust to the league better than people think.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Blazers could use some wing depth and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Cavaliers could be getting themselves a steal.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Carsen Edwards, Point Guard, Purdue: After a fantastic tournament, Edwards's stock has risen dramatically. He's someone that can score and could shoot it well from three. Edwards is probably more suited for a bench role although the Nets probably need more point guard depth if D'Angelo Russell bolts this summer.
28. Golden State Warriors- Zach Norvell, Shooting Guard, Gonzaga: This wouldn't be a bad selection as the Warriors take a wing that has been in big games in college and has a nice all around game. They could lose Kevin Durant and/or Klay Thompson this summer and getting depth at wing would be smart.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- Daniel Gafford, Center, Arkansas: Gafford is somebody that could have been drafted last year, but decided to come back to school for his sophomore season. He has tantalizing upside and is somebody that if the Bucks were to take here, would make a possible immediate contribution, especially if Brook Lopez bolts this summer.
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Monday, June 3, 2019
2019 MLB Mock Draft: Final Edition
Here is my final edition of my 2019 MLB Mock Draft.
1. Baltimore Orioles- Adley Rutschman, Catcher, Oregon State: Rutschman is the heavy favorite to go first overall according to many people in the industry. He would immediately become the Orioles catcher of the future and he could get to the big leagues faster than a lot of folks due to his switch hitting ability and he provides a lot of power.
2. Kansas City Royals- Bobby Witt Jr., Shortstop, Colleyville Heritage HS (Texas): The Royals are a team that wants top tier talent to build around and in their system. Enter Witt, who is a five-tool prospect that hits for a ton of power and projects to be a shortstop long term would immediately become the Royals top prospect.
3. Chicago White Sox- Andrew Vaughn, First Baseman, California: The White Sox have options with this choice. They decide to go with the highly touted first baseman in Vaughn. He is arguably the best all-around hitter in this draft and he would be a fine long term replacement for Jose Abreu, if they choose to move on from him.
4. Miami Marlins- J. J. Bleday, Outfielder, Vanderbilt: The Marlins are a team that lacks college position players in their system. Bleday is someone that scouts thought had some power to go with his bat and he's displayed it this year in college. The front office apparently love Bleday although shortstop CJ Abrams can't be ruled out either.
5. Detroit Tigers- Riley Greene, Outfielder, Hagerty HS (Florida): Greene is the best high school hitter in this draft and the Tigers snag him here. They could go with a college hitter here, but they settle on Greene here, who is a below average defensive player that could end up a longterm DH.
6. San Diego Padres- CJ Abrams, Shortstop, Blessed Trinity HS (California): The Padres are getting a steal here with Abrams falling to them at six and he's someone I had slotted third to Chicago two weeks ago. He is one of the best hitters and athletes in this draft. If it doesn't work out for him as a middle infielder, than he could work out in center field.
7. Cincinnati Reds- Nick Lodolo, LHP, TCU: The Reds have a farm system that's loaded with hitters and high school pitchers, but it lacks collegiate arms. Lodolo is the first pitcher taken off the board as he's the best pitcher in the draft and he's someone that has three good pitches.
8. Texas Rangers- Brett Baty, Third Baseman, Lake Travis HS (Texas): This selection would be a reach for me. Baty is somebody with tremendous upside and possibly could go higher than this. Some scouts believe he's the best high school hitter and not Riley Greene as he's also shown to hit for average and power. There are teams that won't touch him in the first round because of his age while others don't think he'll last 20 picks.
9. Atlanta Braves (compensation pick)- Jackson Rutledge, RHP, San Jacinto (Texas): The Braves have some option here and they opt to take the high school pitcher. Rutledge has shown high velocity and is an analytics darling and that's something the Braves would like.
10. San Francisco Giants- Hunter Bishop, Outfielder, Arizona State: The Rangers and Braves pass on Bishop and it gives the Giants an opportunity here to snag him. Bishop is somebody who's stock has risen from the start of the season to put him in this position.
11. Toronto Blue Jays- Alek Manoah, RHP, West Virginia: The Jays are a team that needs more pitching as they have some young great hitters. Manoah is the best college righty pitcher in the draft and he's somebody that has improved his walk rate from last year to this year.
12. New York Mets- Zach Thompson, LHP, Kentucky: Many folks are linking Thompson to the Mets and it would be a solid draft choice here. If it weren't for injury concerns, he'd go in the top ten of this draft, but he has put together a great season.
13. Minnesota Twins- Shea Langeliers, Catcher, Baylor: If it weren't for Adley Rutschman, Langeliers would have been the best catcher in this draft. He doesn't have Rutschman's offensive upside, but he's one of the best defensive catchers of the last decade and is hitting better this spring despite a broken hamate that sidelined him for just three weeks.
14. Philadelphia Phillies- Bryson Stott, Shortstop, UNLV: The Phillies land themselves a steal as they take the highly touted shortstop in Stott. He is the best college infielder in the draft class and he projects to be an impact hitter with enough defense to stick at short.
15. Los Angeles Angels- Matthew Allan, RHP, Seminole HS (Florida): The Angels have drafted a lot of position players in the first round the past few seasons, but this time around they take a high school arm in Allan. Scouts love his curveball and his fastball, but if he falls far, he may be heading to college rather than the pros.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks- Corbin Carroll, Outfielder, Lakwood HS (California): The Diamondbacks have options here with this selection as they can opt for a high school arm here. Carroll is somebody that can rake and makes great contact with a nice left-handed swing, has a ton of
speed that works on offense and defense.
17. Washington Nationals- Josh Jung, Third Baseman, Texas Tech: Jung is somebody that was thought out to be a top ten or even top five pick prior to this season. He's having a down season, but is still producing solid numbers and he's worth a first round choice due to his past success.
18. Pittsburgh Pirates- Brennan Malone, RHP, IMG Academy (Florida): The Pirates could go in a number of directions here whether that could be a high school or a college position player, but here I have them taking a fast riser in Malone. Malone is somebody that displays four good pitches and I wouldn't rule out him going in the top ten.
19. St. Louis Cardinals- George Kirby, RHP, Elon: The lack of college arms that are first round worthy will push guys like Kirby up the draft boards. He is someone that is a great strike thrower and he lead the country in strikeout-walk ratio to back it up.
20. Seattle Mariners- Anthony Volpe, Shortstop, Delbarton HS (New Jersey): The latest rumors are linking the Mariners and Volpe and that would be a major reach. He's a top of the line makeup guy whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts. He's a good hitter, a good defender, and a good runner, and it all plays up.
21. Atlanta Braves- Kody Hoese, Third Baseman, Tulane: There is a lot of smoke here regarding Hoese and the Braves. He made some swing changes in summer ball last year that unlocked his natural strength and turned him into a big time power threat.
22. Tampa Bay Rays- Gunnar Henderson, Shortstop, John T. Morgan Academy (Alabama): Henderson is someone who's stock is rising to the point that he's in the conversation for best shortstop in the draft. He can hit at a high rate and has some power that has emerged this year.
23. Colorado Rockies- Quinn Priester, RHP, Cary-Grove HS (Illinois): After having college position players mocked in this spot, I have the Rockies going with the high school arm in Priester. He is somebody that is one of the fastest risers of the spring and has a great curveball.
24. Cleveland Indians- Michael Busch, First Baseman/Outfielder, North Carolina: Busch is someone that is very polished and mature as a hitter, but he doesn't have a clear position. He hits for a ton of power and many folks he's a first baseman long term.
25. Los Angeles Dodgers- Daniel Espino, RHP, Georgia Premier Academy: With the first of two first round picks, the Dodgers go with a high school righty with a ton of upside in Espino. He offers plenty of good pitches and has big velocity and spin rate.
26. Arizona Diamondbacks (compensation pick)- Will Wilson, Shortstop/Second Baseman, North Carolina State: Wilson is solid across the board, with a nice swing, decent pop and the arm and quickness to potentially land at short long-term. He has below-average speed, which means he may wind up at second, but he’ll likely hit.
27. Chicago Cubs- Logan Davidson, Shortstop, Clemson: The Cubs have a small budget in terms of bonus pool money for the draft so they under-slot a college position player. Davidson is a switch-hitting shortstop that plays good defense and runs the bases well too.
28. Milwaukee Brewers- Kameron Misner, Outfielder, Missouri: Misner is the college prospect with the best tools package among college position players. He has a good lefty swing and significant power potential, plus he draws praise for his makeup and worth ethic, but there are lingering concerns about his ability to make consistent contact at the upper levels.
29. Oakland Athletics- Greg Jones, Shortstop, UNC Wilmington: Here's another possibility that is gaining momentum. Jones is a player that is among the fastest in the draft and he has intriguing offensive upside.
30. New York Yankees- Tyler Callihan, Third Baseman, Providence HS (Florida): Callihan profiles similar to Brett Bady due to his being old for the high school class. He is someone else that's worth a first round pick due to the fact he can flat out hit.
31. Los Angeles Dodgers (compensation pick)- Braden Shewmake, Shortstop, Texas A&M: The Dodgers decide to go with the college position player in Shewmake. He's a grinder whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts and has outstanding hand-eye coordination and rarely strikes out, and he'll pepper the ball to all fields.
32. Houston Astros- J. J. Goss, RHP, Cypress Ranch HS (Texas): Goss is one of the more underrated high school arms in this class. He is somebody that has raw tools and he has a great curveball and slider.
1. Baltimore Orioles- Adley Rutschman, Catcher, Oregon State: Rutschman is the heavy favorite to go first overall according to many people in the industry. He would immediately become the Orioles catcher of the future and he could get to the big leagues faster than a lot of folks due to his switch hitting ability and he provides a lot of power.
2. Kansas City Royals- Bobby Witt Jr., Shortstop, Colleyville Heritage HS (Texas): The Royals are a team that wants top tier talent to build around and in their system. Enter Witt, who is a five-tool prospect that hits for a ton of power and projects to be a shortstop long term would immediately become the Royals top prospect.
3. Chicago White Sox- Andrew Vaughn, First Baseman, California: The White Sox have options with this choice. They decide to go with the highly touted first baseman in Vaughn. He is arguably the best all-around hitter in this draft and he would be a fine long term replacement for Jose Abreu, if they choose to move on from him.
4. Miami Marlins- J. J. Bleday, Outfielder, Vanderbilt: The Marlins are a team that lacks college position players in their system. Bleday is someone that scouts thought had some power to go with his bat and he's displayed it this year in college. The front office apparently love Bleday although shortstop CJ Abrams can't be ruled out either.
5. Detroit Tigers- Riley Greene, Outfielder, Hagerty HS (Florida): Greene is the best high school hitter in this draft and the Tigers snag him here. They could go with a college hitter here, but they settle on Greene here, who is a below average defensive player that could end up a longterm DH.
6. San Diego Padres- CJ Abrams, Shortstop, Blessed Trinity HS (California): The Padres are getting a steal here with Abrams falling to them at six and he's someone I had slotted third to Chicago two weeks ago. He is one of the best hitters and athletes in this draft. If it doesn't work out for him as a middle infielder, than he could work out in center field.
7. Cincinnati Reds- Nick Lodolo, LHP, TCU: The Reds have a farm system that's loaded with hitters and high school pitchers, but it lacks collegiate arms. Lodolo is the first pitcher taken off the board as he's the best pitcher in the draft and he's someone that has three good pitches.
8. Texas Rangers- Brett Baty, Third Baseman, Lake Travis HS (Texas): This selection would be a reach for me. Baty is somebody with tremendous upside and possibly could go higher than this. Some scouts believe he's the best high school hitter and not Riley Greene as he's also shown to hit for average and power. There are teams that won't touch him in the first round because of his age while others don't think he'll last 20 picks.
9. Atlanta Braves (compensation pick)- Jackson Rutledge, RHP, San Jacinto (Texas): The Braves have some option here and they opt to take the high school pitcher. Rutledge has shown high velocity and is an analytics darling and that's something the Braves would like.
10. San Francisco Giants- Hunter Bishop, Outfielder, Arizona State: The Rangers and Braves pass on Bishop and it gives the Giants an opportunity here to snag him. Bishop is somebody who's stock has risen from the start of the season to put him in this position.
11. Toronto Blue Jays- Alek Manoah, RHP, West Virginia: The Jays are a team that needs more pitching as they have some young great hitters. Manoah is the best college righty pitcher in the draft and he's somebody that has improved his walk rate from last year to this year.
12. New York Mets- Zach Thompson, LHP, Kentucky: Many folks are linking Thompson to the Mets and it would be a solid draft choice here. If it weren't for injury concerns, he'd go in the top ten of this draft, but he has put together a great season.
13. Minnesota Twins- Shea Langeliers, Catcher, Baylor: If it weren't for Adley Rutschman, Langeliers would have been the best catcher in this draft. He doesn't have Rutschman's offensive upside, but he's one of the best defensive catchers of the last decade and is hitting better this spring despite a broken hamate that sidelined him for just three weeks.
14. Philadelphia Phillies- Bryson Stott, Shortstop, UNLV: The Phillies land themselves a steal as they take the highly touted shortstop in Stott. He is the best college infielder in the draft class and he projects to be an impact hitter with enough defense to stick at short.
15. Los Angeles Angels- Matthew Allan, RHP, Seminole HS (Florida): The Angels have drafted a lot of position players in the first round the past few seasons, but this time around they take a high school arm in Allan. Scouts love his curveball and his fastball, but if he falls far, he may be heading to college rather than the pros.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks- Corbin Carroll, Outfielder, Lakwood HS (California): The Diamondbacks have options here with this selection as they can opt for a high school arm here. Carroll is somebody that can rake and makes great contact with a nice left-handed swing, has a ton of
speed that works on offense and defense.
17. Washington Nationals- Josh Jung, Third Baseman, Texas Tech: Jung is somebody that was thought out to be a top ten or even top five pick prior to this season. He's having a down season, but is still producing solid numbers and he's worth a first round choice due to his past success.
18. Pittsburgh Pirates- Brennan Malone, RHP, IMG Academy (Florida): The Pirates could go in a number of directions here whether that could be a high school or a college position player, but here I have them taking a fast riser in Malone. Malone is somebody that displays four good pitches and I wouldn't rule out him going in the top ten.
19. St. Louis Cardinals- George Kirby, RHP, Elon: The lack of college arms that are first round worthy will push guys like Kirby up the draft boards. He is someone that is a great strike thrower and he lead the country in strikeout-walk ratio to back it up.
20. Seattle Mariners- Anthony Volpe, Shortstop, Delbarton HS (New Jersey): The latest rumors are linking the Mariners and Volpe and that would be a major reach. He's a top of the line makeup guy whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts. He's a good hitter, a good defender, and a good runner, and it all plays up.
21. Atlanta Braves- Kody Hoese, Third Baseman, Tulane: There is a lot of smoke here regarding Hoese and the Braves. He made some swing changes in summer ball last year that unlocked his natural strength and turned him into a big time power threat.
22. Tampa Bay Rays- Gunnar Henderson, Shortstop, John T. Morgan Academy (Alabama): Henderson is someone who's stock is rising to the point that he's in the conversation for best shortstop in the draft. He can hit at a high rate and has some power that has emerged this year.
23. Colorado Rockies- Quinn Priester, RHP, Cary-Grove HS (Illinois): After having college position players mocked in this spot, I have the Rockies going with the high school arm in Priester. He is somebody that is one of the fastest risers of the spring and has a great curveball.
24. Cleveland Indians- Michael Busch, First Baseman/Outfielder, North Carolina: Busch is someone that is very polished and mature as a hitter, but he doesn't have a clear position. He hits for a ton of power and many folks he's a first baseman long term.
25. Los Angeles Dodgers- Daniel Espino, RHP, Georgia Premier Academy: With the first of two first round picks, the Dodgers go with a high school righty with a ton of upside in Espino. He offers plenty of good pitches and has big velocity and spin rate.
26. Arizona Diamondbacks (compensation pick)- Will Wilson, Shortstop/Second Baseman, North Carolina State: Wilson is solid across the board, with a nice swing, decent pop and the arm and quickness to potentially land at short long-term. He has below-average speed, which means he may wind up at second, but he’ll likely hit.
27. Chicago Cubs- Logan Davidson, Shortstop, Clemson: The Cubs have a small budget in terms of bonus pool money for the draft so they under-slot a college position player. Davidson is a switch-hitting shortstop that plays good defense and runs the bases well too.
28. Milwaukee Brewers- Kameron Misner, Outfielder, Missouri: Misner is the college prospect with the best tools package among college position players. He has a good lefty swing and significant power potential, plus he draws praise for his makeup and worth ethic, but there are lingering concerns about his ability to make consistent contact at the upper levels.
29. Oakland Athletics- Greg Jones, Shortstop, UNC Wilmington: Here's another possibility that is gaining momentum. Jones is a player that is among the fastest in the draft and he has intriguing offensive upside.
30. New York Yankees- Tyler Callihan, Third Baseman, Providence HS (Florida): Callihan profiles similar to Brett Bady due to his being old for the high school class. He is someone else that's worth a first round pick due to the fact he can flat out hit.
31. Los Angeles Dodgers (compensation pick)- Braden Shewmake, Shortstop, Texas A&M: The Dodgers decide to go with the college position player in Shewmake. He's a grinder whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts and has outstanding hand-eye coordination and rarely strikes out, and he'll pepper the ball to all fields.
32. Houston Astros- J. J. Goss, RHP, Cypress Ranch HS (Texas): Goss is one of the more underrated high school arms in this class. He is somebody that has raw tools and he has a great curveball and slider.
Thursday, May 30, 2019
2019 NBA Mock Draft: Fifth Edition
Here is my fifth edition of my 2019 NBA Mock Draft.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Unfortunately, Anthony Davis still wants out of New Orleans and maybe they ship him to New York or Los Angeles for a bunch of young assets and either the third or fourth pick of the draft. That said, assuming they move on from Davis, they can start fresh with Williamson on board.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. There is the possibility the Knicks move this pick in a possible Anthony Davis trade, which would be a win for both parties involved as the Knicks would have a star to possibly pair with Kevin Durant (if he signs in New York).
4. Los Angeles Lakers- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play. There is a distinct possibility that this pick is shopped though as they find another star to pair with LeBron James.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Cavaliers are one of the lottery losers as they drop from two to five. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He and Collin Sexton would make an interesting backcourt.
6. Phoenix Suns- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with Garland. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered. A backcourt with him and Devin Booker would be interesting.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Wizards were a lottery loser as they fell from six to nine. Bol is somebody that is very talented, but has major bust potential. He did miss most of the season with a foot injury. He can protect the rim and shoot the three ball pretty well too for a seven footer.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. In this scenario, he'd come in and possibly start alongside John Collins (unless they upgrade the center position in free agency).
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The first Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke, who would fill a long term need position for the Timberwolves. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Heat that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
13. Miami Heat- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Heat found themselves a player.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: The Celtics have some options here as they can trade the pick for something else or just simply take who they feel is the best player available as they face a critical offseason. Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
15. Detroit Pistons- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pistons could be getting themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Magic got themselves a player.
17. Brooklyn Nets- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: With the Nets having their own first rounder for the first time in forever, they take a lottery talent here with Hachimura. He is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season.
18. Indiana Pacers- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Pacers could use some wing depth and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Spurs are a team that is very guard heavy and pretty big man heavy. Where they lack is forward depth and Johnson is somebody that can come in and develop with a team that is notoriously known for developing well. He can shoot the three-ball well, but he needs to develop more defensively, which the Spurs can help him with.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: The Celtics are a team that wants a lot more size. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: The Thunder are getting themselves a mega steal here with Herro. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and could be a valuable bench piece for Billy Donovan immediately.
22. Boston Celtics- Talen Horton-Tucker, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Iowa State: Horton-Tucker is somebody that had a very good year with the Cyclones this past season as a freshman which got him to this position. The Celtics are a team (with three first rounders) that could afford to take chances on overachievers and Horton-Tucker would be someone that would provide solid minutes for them.
23. Utah Jazz- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: The Jazz are getting themselves a steal here with Alexander-Walker. He can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball and the Jazz could use some wing depth off the bench.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- Grant Williams, Power Forward, Tennessee: Williams, the two-time SEC Player of the Year, ends up in the area where he should be picked. He's someone who isn't athlete or has a good perimeter game, but he can score in the post and could adjust to the league better than people think.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Carsen Edwards, Point Guard, Purdue: After a fantastic tournament, Edwards's stock has risen dramatically. He's someone that can score and could shoot it well from three. Edwards is probably more suited for a bench role although the Nets could need more point guard depth if they don't opt to bring back D'Angelo Russell.
28. Golden State Warriors- Luguentz Dort, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Arizona State: Dort is somebody that had a solid freshman season and lived upto his top fifty ranking he was given for his class. He's somebody that is versatile and could guard both guard positions well.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- Daniel Gafford, Center, Arkansas: Gafford is somebody that could have been drafted last year, but decided to come back to school for his sophomore season. He has tantalizing upside and is somebody that if the Bucks were to take here, would make a possible immediate contribution, especially if Brook Lopez bolts this summer.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Unfortunately, Anthony Davis still wants out of New Orleans and maybe they ship him to New York or Los Angeles for a bunch of young assets and either the third or fourth pick of the draft. That said, assuming they move on from Davis, they can start fresh with Williamson on board.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. There is the possibility the Knicks move this pick in a possible Anthony Davis trade, which would be a win for both parties involved as the Knicks would have a star to possibly pair with Kevin Durant (if he signs in New York).
4. Los Angeles Lakers- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play. There is a distinct possibility that this pick is shopped though as they find another star to pair with LeBron James.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Cavaliers are one of the lottery losers as they drop from two to five. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He and Collin Sexton would make an interesting backcourt.
6. Phoenix Suns- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with Garland. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered. A backcourt with him and Devin Booker would be interesting.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Wizards were a lottery loser as they fell from six to nine. Bol is somebody that is very talented, but has major bust potential. He did miss most of the season with a foot injury. He can protect the rim and shoot the three ball pretty well too for a seven footer.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. In this scenario, he'd come in and possibly start alongside John Collins (unless they upgrade the center position in free agency).
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The first Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke, who would fill a long term need position for the Timberwolves. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Heat that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
13. Miami Heat- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Heat found themselves a player.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: The Celtics have some options here as they can trade the pick for something else or just simply take who they feel is the best player available as they face a critical offseason. Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
15. Detroit Pistons- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pistons could be getting themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Magic got themselves a player.
17. Brooklyn Nets- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: With the Nets having their own first rounder for the first time in forever, they take a lottery talent here with Hachimura. He is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season.
18. Indiana Pacers- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Pacers could use some wing depth and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Spurs are a team that is very guard heavy and pretty big man heavy. Where they lack is forward depth and Johnson is somebody that can come in and develop with a team that is notoriously known for developing well. He can shoot the three-ball well, but he needs to develop more defensively, which the Spurs can help him with.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: The Celtics are a team that wants a lot more size. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: The Thunder are getting themselves a mega steal here with Herro. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and could be a valuable bench piece for Billy Donovan immediately.
22. Boston Celtics- Talen Horton-Tucker, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Iowa State: Horton-Tucker is somebody that had a very good year with the Cyclones this past season as a freshman which got him to this position. The Celtics are a team (with three first rounders) that could afford to take chances on overachievers and Horton-Tucker would be someone that would provide solid minutes for them.
23. Utah Jazz- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: The Jazz are getting themselves a steal here with Alexander-Walker. He can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball and the Jazz could use some wing depth off the bench.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- Grant Williams, Power Forward, Tennessee: Williams, the two-time SEC Player of the Year, ends up in the area where he should be picked. He's someone who isn't athlete or has a good perimeter game, but he can score in the post and could adjust to the league better than people think.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Carsen Edwards, Point Guard, Purdue: After a fantastic tournament, Edwards's stock has risen dramatically. He's someone that can score and could shoot it well from three. Edwards is probably more suited for a bench role although the Nets could need more point guard depth if they don't opt to bring back D'Angelo Russell.
28. Golden State Warriors- Luguentz Dort, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Arizona State: Dort is somebody that had a solid freshman season and lived upto his top fifty ranking he was given for his class. He's somebody that is versatile and could guard both guard positions well.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- Daniel Gafford, Center, Arkansas: Gafford is somebody that could have been drafted last year, but decided to come back to school for his sophomore season. He has tantalizing upside and is somebody that if the Bucks were to take here, would make a possible immediate contribution, especially if Brook Lopez bolts this summer.
2019 MLB Mock Draft: Fourth Edition
Here is my fourth edition of my 2019 MLB Mock Draft.
1. Baltimore Orioles- Adley Rutschman, Catcher, Oregon State: Rutschman is the heavy favorite to go first overall according to many people in the industry. He would immediately become the Orioles catcher of the future and he could get to the big leagues faster than a lot of folks due to his switch hitting ability and he provides a lot of power.
2. Kansas City Royals- Bobby Witt Jr., Shortstop, Colleyville Heritage HS (Texas): The Royals are a team that wants top tier talent to build around and in their system. Enter Witt, who is a five-tool prospect that hits for a ton of power and projects to be a shortstop long term would immediately become the Royals top prospect.
3. Chicago White Sox- CJ Abrams, Shortstop, Blessed Trinity HS (California): The White Sox have options with this choice. They decide to go with a middle infielder with Abrams, who is one of the best hitters and athletes in this draft. If it doesn't work out for him as a middle infielder, than he could work out in center field.
4. Miami Marlins- Andrew Vaughn, First Baseman, California: The Marlins are a team that lacks college position players in their system. Vaughn is arguably the best all-around hitter in this draft and he could go third to the White Sox. If Vaughn falls here, it's a major win for the Marlins as they finally have a possible franchise player.
5. Detroit Tigers- J. J. Bleday, Outfielder, Vanderbilt: Bleday is someone that scouts thought had some power to go with his bat and he's displayed it this year in college. There is some buzz that this is the direction the Tigers go with instead of Riley Greene.
6. San Diego Padres- Riley Greene, Outfielder, Hagerty HS (Florida): Greene is the best high school hitter in this draft and the Padres snag him here. They could go with a college hitter here, but they settle on Greene here, who is a below average defensive player which doesn't bode well for a National League club like the Padres.
7. Cincinnati Reds- Nick Lodolo, LHP, TCU: The Reds have a farm system that's loaded with hitters and high school pitchers, but it lacks collegiate arms. Lodolo is the first pitcher taken off the board as he's the best pitcher in the draft and he's someone that has three good pitches.
8. Texas Rangers- Hunter Bishop, Outfielder, Arizona State: The Rangers system lacks college hitters and they take one here in Bishop. The Orioles apparently like him too, but taking him number one overall is a bit of a stretch. Bishop is somebody who's stock has risen from the start of the season to put him in this position.
9. Atlanta Braves (compensation pick)- Corbin Carroll, Outfielder, Lakwood HS (California): The Braves have options here with this selection as they can opt for a college arm here. Carroll is somebody that can rake and makes great contact with a nice left-handed swing, has a ton of speed that works on offense and defense.
10. San Francisco Giants- Bryson Stott, Shortstop, UNLV: The Giants have options here and they tend to go with the highly touted shortstop in Stott. He is the best college infielder in the draft class and he projects to be an impact hitter with enough defense to stick at short.
11. Toronto Blue Jays- Jackson Rutledge, RHP, San Jacinto (Texas): The Jays have some options here with this pick. They go with the high school righty some people feel is the best one in this draft that has shown high velocity and is an analytics darling
12. New York Mets- Zach Thompson, LHP, Kentucky: Many folks are linking Thompson to the Mets and it would be a solid draft choice here. If it weren't for injury concerns, he'd go in the top ten of this draft, but he has put together a great season.
13. Minnesota Twins- Shea Langeliers, Catcher, Baylor: If it weren't for Adley Rutschman, Langeliers would have been the best catcher in this draft. He doesn't have Rutschman's offensive upside, but he's one of the best defensive catchers of the last decade and is hitting better this spring despite a broken hamate that sidelined him for just three weeks.
14. Philadelphia Phillies- Alek Manoah, RHP, West Virginia: The Phillies have options with this pick as they can go in a numerous number of directions. Manoah is the best college righty pitcher in the draft and he's somebody that has improved his walk rate from last year to this year.
15. Los Angeles Angels- Matthew Allan, RHP, Seminole HS (Florida): The Angels have drafted a lot of position players in the first round the past few seasons, but this time around they take a high school arm in Allan. Scouts love his curveball and his fastball, but if he falls far, he may be heading to college rather than the pros.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks- Josh Jung, Third Baseman, Texas Tech: Jung is somebody that was thought out to be a top ten or even top five pick prior to this season. He's having a down season, but is still producing solid numbers and he's worth a first round choice due to his past success.
17. Washington Nationals- George Kirby, RHP, Elon: The lack of college arms that are first round worthy will push guys like Kirby up the draft boards. He is someone that is a great strike thrower and he lead the country in strikeout-walk ratio to back it up.
18. Pittsburgh Pirates- Quinn Priester, RHP, Cary-Grove HS (Illinois): After having college position players mocked in this spot, I have the Mariners going with the high school arm in Priester. He is somebody that is one of the fastest risers of the spring and has a great curveball.
19. St. Louis Cardinals- Brennan Malone, RHP, IMG Academy (Florida): The Cardinals could go in a number of directions here whether that could be a high school or a college position player, but here I have them taking a fast riser in Malone. Malone is somebody that displays four good pitches and I wouldn't rule out him going in the top ten.
20. Seattle Mariners- Brett Baty, Third Baseman, Lake Travis HS (Texas): Baty is somebody with tremendous upside and possibly could go higher than this. Some scouts believe he's the best high school hitter and not Riley Greene as he's also shown to hit for average and power. There are teams that won't touch him in the first round because of his age while others don't think he'll last 20 picks.
21. Atlanta Braves- Logan Davidson, Shortstop, Clemson: There is a lot of buzz surrounding the Braves and Davidson of late to the fact this could indeed be the choice here. He is a switch-hitting shortstop that plays good defense and runs the bases well too.
22. Tampa Bay Rays- Kameron Misner, Outfielder, Missouri: Misner is the college prospect with the best tools package among college position players. He has a good lefty swing and significant power potential, plus he draws praise for his makeup and worth ethic, but there are lingering concerns about his ability to make consistent contact at the upper levels.
23. Colorado Rockies- Will Wilson, Shortstop/Second Baseman, North Carolina State: Wilson is solid across the board, with a nice swing, decent pop and the arm and quickness to potentially land at short long-term. He has below-average speed, which means he may wind up at second, but he’ll likely hit.
24. Cleveland Indians- Michael Busch, First Baseman/Outfielder, North Carolina: Busch is someone that is very polished and mature as a hitter, but he doesn't have a clear position. He hits for a ton of power and many folks he's a first baseman long term.
25. Los Angeles Dodgers- Gunnar Henderson, Shortstop, John T. Morgan Academy (Alabama): Henderson is someone who's stock is rising to the point that he's in the conversation for best shortstop in the draft. He can hit at a high rate and has some power that has emerged this year.
26. Arizona Diamondbacks (compensation pick)- Daniel Espino, RHP, Georgia Premier Academy: With the second of two first round picks, the Diamondbacks go with a high school righty with a ton of upside in Espino. He offers plenty of good pitches and has big velocity and spin rate.
27. Chicago Cubs- Kody Hoese, Third Baseman, Tulane: The Cubs would love a college arm to fall to them, but they settle here on Hoese. He made some swing changes in summer ball last year that unlocked his natural strength and turned him into a big time power threat.
28. Milwaukee Brewers- Tyler Callihan, Third Baseman, Providence HS (Florida): Callihan profiles similar to Brett Bady due to his being old for the high school class. He is someone else that's worth a first round pick due to the fact he can flat out hit.
29. Oakland Athletics- Keoni Cavaco, Third Baseman, Eastlake HS (California): Cavaco is one of the drafts fastest risers as the draft is less than a week away. He has huge raw power and a strong defensive profile at the hot corner.
30. New York Yankees- Braden Shewmake, Shortstop, Texas A&M: The Yankes decide to go with the college position player in Shewmake. He's a grinder whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts and has outstanding hand-eye coordination and rarely strikes out, and he'll pepper the ball to all fields.
31. Los Angeles Dodgers- J. J. Goss, RHP, Cypress Ranch HS (Texas): Goss is one of the more underrated high school arms in this class. He is somebody that has raw tools and he has a great curveball and slider.
32. Houston Astros- Seth Johnson, RHP, Campbell: Johnson was a shortstop without much of a bat before transferring to Campbell, where he was moved to the mound full-time. He needs a lot of work because of his relative inexperience on the mound, but if he has one of the liveliest arms in the draft.
1. Baltimore Orioles- Adley Rutschman, Catcher, Oregon State: Rutschman is the heavy favorite to go first overall according to many people in the industry. He would immediately become the Orioles catcher of the future and he could get to the big leagues faster than a lot of folks due to his switch hitting ability and he provides a lot of power.
2. Kansas City Royals- Bobby Witt Jr., Shortstop, Colleyville Heritage HS (Texas): The Royals are a team that wants top tier talent to build around and in their system. Enter Witt, who is a five-tool prospect that hits for a ton of power and projects to be a shortstop long term would immediately become the Royals top prospect.
3. Chicago White Sox- CJ Abrams, Shortstop, Blessed Trinity HS (California): The White Sox have options with this choice. They decide to go with a middle infielder with Abrams, who is one of the best hitters and athletes in this draft. If it doesn't work out for him as a middle infielder, than he could work out in center field.
4. Miami Marlins- Andrew Vaughn, First Baseman, California: The Marlins are a team that lacks college position players in their system. Vaughn is arguably the best all-around hitter in this draft and he could go third to the White Sox. If Vaughn falls here, it's a major win for the Marlins as they finally have a possible franchise player.
5. Detroit Tigers- J. J. Bleday, Outfielder, Vanderbilt: Bleday is someone that scouts thought had some power to go with his bat and he's displayed it this year in college. There is some buzz that this is the direction the Tigers go with instead of Riley Greene.
6. San Diego Padres- Riley Greene, Outfielder, Hagerty HS (Florida): Greene is the best high school hitter in this draft and the Padres snag him here. They could go with a college hitter here, but they settle on Greene here, who is a below average defensive player which doesn't bode well for a National League club like the Padres.
7. Cincinnati Reds- Nick Lodolo, LHP, TCU: The Reds have a farm system that's loaded with hitters and high school pitchers, but it lacks collegiate arms. Lodolo is the first pitcher taken off the board as he's the best pitcher in the draft and he's someone that has three good pitches.
8. Texas Rangers- Hunter Bishop, Outfielder, Arizona State: The Rangers system lacks college hitters and they take one here in Bishop. The Orioles apparently like him too, but taking him number one overall is a bit of a stretch. Bishop is somebody who's stock has risen from the start of the season to put him in this position.
9. Atlanta Braves (compensation pick)- Corbin Carroll, Outfielder, Lakwood HS (California): The Braves have options here with this selection as they can opt for a college arm here. Carroll is somebody that can rake and makes great contact with a nice left-handed swing, has a ton of speed that works on offense and defense.
10. San Francisco Giants- Bryson Stott, Shortstop, UNLV: The Giants have options here and they tend to go with the highly touted shortstop in Stott. He is the best college infielder in the draft class and he projects to be an impact hitter with enough defense to stick at short.
11. Toronto Blue Jays- Jackson Rutledge, RHP, San Jacinto (Texas): The Jays have some options here with this pick. They go with the high school righty some people feel is the best one in this draft that has shown high velocity and is an analytics darling
12. New York Mets- Zach Thompson, LHP, Kentucky: Many folks are linking Thompson to the Mets and it would be a solid draft choice here. If it weren't for injury concerns, he'd go in the top ten of this draft, but he has put together a great season.
13. Minnesota Twins- Shea Langeliers, Catcher, Baylor: If it weren't for Adley Rutschman, Langeliers would have been the best catcher in this draft. He doesn't have Rutschman's offensive upside, but he's one of the best defensive catchers of the last decade and is hitting better this spring despite a broken hamate that sidelined him for just three weeks.
14. Philadelphia Phillies- Alek Manoah, RHP, West Virginia: The Phillies have options with this pick as they can go in a numerous number of directions. Manoah is the best college righty pitcher in the draft and he's somebody that has improved his walk rate from last year to this year.
15. Los Angeles Angels- Matthew Allan, RHP, Seminole HS (Florida): The Angels have drafted a lot of position players in the first round the past few seasons, but this time around they take a high school arm in Allan. Scouts love his curveball and his fastball, but if he falls far, he may be heading to college rather than the pros.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks- Josh Jung, Third Baseman, Texas Tech: Jung is somebody that was thought out to be a top ten or even top five pick prior to this season. He's having a down season, but is still producing solid numbers and he's worth a first round choice due to his past success.
17. Washington Nationals- George Kirby, RHP, Elon: The lack of college arms that are first round worthy will push guys like Kirby up the draft boards. He is someone that is a great strike thrower and he lead the country in strikeout-walk ratio to back it up.
18. Pittsburgh Pirates- Quinn Priester, RHP, Cary-Grove HS (Illinois): After having college position players mocked in this spot, I have the Mariners going with the high school arm in Priester. He is somebody that is one of the fastest risers of the spring and has a great curveball.
19. St. Louis Cardinals- Brennan Malone, RHP, IMG Academy (Florida): The Cardinals could go in a number of directions here whether that could be a high school or a college position player, but here I have them taking a fast riser in Malone. Malone is somebody that displays four good pitches and I wouldn't rule out him going in the top ten.
20. Seattle Mariners- Brett Baty, Third Baseman, Lake Travis HS (Texas): Baty is somebody with tremendous upside and possibly could go higher than this. Some scouts believe he's the best high school hitter and not Riley Greene as he's also shown to hit for average and power. There are teams that won't touch him in the first round because of his age while others don't think he'll last 20 picks.
21. Atlanta Braves- Logan Davidson, Shortstop, Clemson: There is a lot of buzz surrounding the Braves and Davidson of late to the fact this could indeed be the choice here. He is a switch-hitting shortstop that plays good defense and runs the bases well too.
22. Tampa Bay Rays- Kameron Misner, Outfielder, Missouri: Misner is the college prospect with the best tools package among college position players. He has a good lefty swing and significant power potential, plus he draws praise for his makeup and worth ethic, but there are lingering concerns about his ability to make consistent contact at the upper levels.
23. Colorado Rockies- Will Wilson, Shortstop/Second Baseman, North Carolina State: Wilson is solid across the board, with a nice swing, decent pop and the arm and quickness to potentially land at short long-term. He has below-average speed, which means he may wind up at second, but he’ll likely hit.
24. Cleveland Indians- Michael Busch, First Baseman/Outfielder, North Carolina: Busch is someone that is very polished and mature as a hitter, but he doesn't have a clear position. He hits for a ton of power and many folks he's a first baseman long term.
25. Los Angeles Dodgers- Gunnar Henderson, Shortstop, John T. Morgan Academy (Alabama): Henderson is someone who's stock is rising to the point that he's in the conversation for best shortstop in the draft. He can hit at a high rate and has some power that has emerged this year.
26. Arizona Diamondbacks (compensation pick)- Daniel Espino, RHP, Georgia Premier Academy: With the second of two first round picks, the Diamondbacks go with a high school righty with a ton of upside in Espino. He offers plenty of good pitches and has big velocity and spin rate.
27. Chicago Cubs- Kody Hoese, Third Baseman, Tulane: The Cubs would love a college arm to fall to them, but they settle here on Hoese. He made some swing changes in summer ball last year that unlocked his natural strength and turned him into a big time power threat.
28. Milwaukee Brewers- Tyler Callihan, Third Baseman, Providence HS (Florida): Callihan profiles similar to Brett Bady due to his being old for the high school class. He is someone else that's worth a first round pick due to the fact he can flat out hit.
29. Oakland Athletics- Keoni Cavaco, Third Baseman, Eastlake HS (California): Cavaco is one of the drafts fastest risers as the draft is less than a week away. He has huge raw power and a strong defensive profile at the hot corner.
30. New York Yankees- Braden Shewmake, Shortstop, Texas A&M: The Yankes decide to go with the college position player in Shewmake. He's a grinder whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts and has outstanding hand-eye coordination and rarely strikes out, and he'll pepper the ball to all fields.
31. Los Angeles Dodgers- J. J. Goss, RHP, Cypress Ranch HS (Texas): Goss is one of the more underrated high school arms in this class. He is somebody that has raw tools and he has a great curveball and slider.
32. Houston Astros- Seth Johnson, RHP, Campbell: Johnson was a shortstop without much of a bat before transferring to Campbell, where he was moved to the mound full-time. He needs a lot of work because of his relative inexperience on the mound, but if he has one of the liveliest arms in the draft.
2019 NBA Playoffs: Finals Prediction
The 2019 NBA Finals are finally here after an entertaining first month of the 2019 NBA Playoffs. The Warriors are in their fifth straight NBA Finals and the Raptors are here for the first time in their history. Who will come out on top?
(E2) Toronto Raptors vs (W1) Golden State Warriors: This should be a better series than folks are giving it a chance to be. The Raptors have been phenomenal defensively throughout their postseason run and their offense is hitting big shots in big spots. Kawhi Leonard has been unequivocally the best player in the postseason so far. Danny Green has been in a horrible slump, but he and Leonard both have finals experience from their days with the Spurs. Kyle Lowry openly admitted to having a finger injury, but he's arguably having his best postseason in his career. Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka have both played up to capability on both ends of the floor. Pascal Siakam has been hit or miss in this playoffs although he has battled an injury in the postseason. Fred Van Vleet's re-emergence in the Bucks series was key for them pulling off the comeback to win the Eastern Conference Final. Norman Powell is another bench guy that's been hit or miss for them too. Nick Nurse couldnt have had a better first season as an NBA head coach. Meanwhile, the Warriors backcourt of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson have been amazing throughout the postseason, especially after Kevin Durant suffered his calf injury. Draymond Green is playing like the guy from three years ago and is showing a lot of tenacity on both ends. Durant and DeMarcus Cousins (quad) both have a chance to return in this series after both seem to have been having smooth rehabs. Andre Igoudala should be back for Game 1 after his injury that kept him out for a game. Bench guys like Alfonso McKinnie, Kevin Looney, and Jordan Bell have stepped up in the last two rounds. Steve Kerr is one of the more underrated coaches in the league and he doesn't get the respect he deserves for five finals's in five years as an NBA head coach. That said, I expect Durant to be back by Game 4 and for Cousins to be back at some point, so the Warriors will be at full-strength midway through the series and I like the Warriors to pull off the leagues first three-peat since the Lakers between 2000-2002.
Prediction: Warriors in six games.
Finals MVP: Stephen Curry
(E2) Toronto Raptors vs (W1) Golden State Warriors: This should be a better series than folks are giving it a chance to be. The Raptors have been phenomenal defensively throughout their postseason run and their offense is hitting big shots in big spots. Kawhi Leonard has been unequivocally the best player in the postseason so far. Danny Green has been in a horrible slump, but he and Leonard both have finals experience from their days with the Spurs. Kyle Lowry openly admitted to having a finger injury, but he's arguably having his best postseason in his career. Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka have both played up to capability on both ends of the floor. Pascal Siakam has been hit or miss in this playoffs although he has battled an injury in the postseason. Fred Van Vleet's re-emergence in the Bucks series was key for them pulling off the comeback to win the Eastern Conference Final. Norman Powell is another bench guy that's been hit or miss for them too. Nick Nurse couldnt have had a better first season as an NBA head coach. Meanwhile, the Warriors backcourt of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson have been amazing throughout the postseason, especially after Kevin Durant suffered his calf injury. Draymond Green is playing like the guy from three years ago and is showing a lot of tenacity on both ends. Durant and DeMarcus Cousins (quad) both have a chance to return in this series after both seem to have been having smooth rehabs. Andre Igoudala should be back for Game 1 after his injury that kept him out for a game. Bench guys like Alfonso McKinnie, Kevin Looney, and Jordan Bell have stepped up in the last two rounds. Steve Kerr is one of the more underrated coaches in the league and he doesn't get the respect he deserves for five finals's in five years as an NBA head coach. That said, I expect Durant to be back by Game 4 and for Cousins to be back at some point, so the Warriors will be at full-strength midway through the series and I like the Warriors to pull off the leagues first three-peat since the Lakers between 2000-2002.
Prediction: Warriors in six games.
Finals MVP: Stephen Curry
Tuesday, May 28, 2019
2019 MLB Mock Draft: Third Edition
Here is my third edition of my 2019 MLB Mock Draft.
1. Baltimore Orioles- Adley Rutschman, Catcher, Oregon State: Rutschman is the favorite to go first overall according to many people in the industry, although there is buzz the O's can take Andrew Vaughn here. He would immediately become the Orioles catcher of the future and he could get to the big leagues faster than a lot of folks due to his switch hitting ability and he provides a lot of power.
2. Kansas City Royals- Bobby Witt Jr., Shortstop, Colleyville Heritage HS (Texas): The Royals are a team that wants top tier talent to build around and in their system. Enter Witt, who is a five-tool prospect that hits for a ton of power and projects to be a shortstop long term would immediately become the Royals top prospect.
3. Chicago White Sox- J. J. Bleday, Outfielder, Vanderbilt: Bleday is someone that scouts thought had some power to go with his bat and he's displayed it this year in college. There is a lot of talk about Bleday being the choice here by the White Sox after many have speculated Andrew Vaughn or CJ Abrams.
4. Miami Marlins- Andrew Vaughn, First Baseman, California: The Marlins are a team that lacks college position players in their system. Vaughn is arguably the best all-around hitter in this draft and he could go third to the White Sox. If Vaughn falls here, it's a major win for the Marlins as they finally have a possible franchise player.
5. Detroit Tigers- CJ Abrams, Shortstop, Blessed Trinity HS (California): The Tigers are possibly getting a steal here with Abrams falling to them at five and he's someone that could go third to the White Sox. He is one of the best hitters and athletes in this draft. If it doesn't work out for him as a middle infielder, than he could work out in center field.
6. San Diego Padres- Riley Greene, Outfielder, Hagerty HS (Florida): Greene is the best high school hitter in this draft and the Padres snag him here. They could go with a college hitter here, but they settle on Greene here, who is a below average defensive player which doesn't bode well for a National League club like the Padres.
7. Cincinnati Reds- Nick Lodolo, LHP, TCU: The Reds have a farm system that's loaded with hitters and high school pitchers, but it lacks collegiate arms. Lodolo is the first pitcher taken off the board as he's the best pitcher in the draft and he's someone that has three good pitches.
8. Texas Rangers- Hunter Bishop, Outfielder, Arizona State: The Rangers system lacks college hitters and they take one here in Bishop. The Orioles apparently like him too, but taking him number one overall is a bit of a stretch. Bishop is somebody who's stock has risen from the start of the season to put him in this position.
9. Atlanta Braves (compensation pick)- Jackson Rutledge, RHP, San Jacinto (Texas): A year after not signing Carter Stewart, the Braves take another high school arm in Rutledge. He's shown high velocity and is an analytics darling and that's something the Braves would like.
10. San Francisco Giants- Bryson Stott, Shortstop, UNLV: The Giants have options here and they tend to go with the highly touted shortstop in Stott. He is the best college infielder in the draft class and he projects to be an impact hitter with enough defense to stick at short.
11. Toronto Blue Jays- Corbin Carroll, Outfielder, Lakwood HS (California): The Blue Jays have options here with this selection as they can opt for a college arm here. Carroll is somebody that can rake and makes great contact with a nice left-handed swing, has a ton of speed that works on offense and defense.
12. New York Mets- Zach Thompson, LHP, Kentucky: Many folks are linking Thompson to the Mets and it would be a solid draft choice here. If it weren't for injury concerns, he'd go in the top ten of this draft, but he has put together a great season.
13. Minnesota Twins- Shea Langeliers, Catcher, Baylor: If it weren't for Adley Rutschman, Langeliers would have been the best catcher in this draft. He doesn't have Rutschman's offensive upside, but he's one of the best defensive catchers of the last decade and is hitting better this spring despite a broken hamate that sidelined him for just three weeks.
14. Philadelphia Phillies- Alek Manoah, RHP, West Virginia: The Phillies have options with this pick as they can go in a numerous number of directions. Manoah is the best college righty pitcher in the draft and he's somebody that has improved his walk rate from last year to this year.
15. Los Angeles Angels- Matthew Allan, RHP, Seminole HS (Florida): The Angels have drafted a lot of position players in the first round the past few seasons, but this time around they take a high school arm in Allan. Scouts love his curveball and his fastball, but if he falls far, he may be heading to college rather than the pros.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks- Brett Baty, Third Baseman, Lake Travis HS (Texas): Baty is somebody with tremendous upside and possibly could go higher than this. Some scouts believe he's the best high school hitter and not Riley Greene as he's also shown to hit for average and power. There are teams that won't touch him in the first round because of his age while others don't think he'll last 20 picks.
17. Washington Nationals- Josh Jung, Third Baseman, Texas Tech: Jung is somebody that was thought out to be a top ten or even top five pick prior to this season. He's having a down season, but is still producing solid numbers and he's worth a first round choice due to his past success.
18. Pittsburgh Pirates- Brennan Malone, RHP, IMG Academy (Florida): The Pirates could go in a number of directions here whether that could be a high school or a college position player, but here I have them taking a fast riser in Malone. Malone is somebody that displays four good pitches and I wouldn't rule out him going in the top ten.
19. St. Louis Cardinals- George Kirby, RHP, Elon: The lack of college arms that are first round worthy will push guys like Kirby up the draft boards. He is someone that is a great strike thrower and he lead the country in strikeout-walk ratio to back it up.
20. Seattle Mariners- Quinn Priester, RHP, Cary-Grove HS (Illinois): After having college position players mocked in this spot, I have the Mariners going with the high school arm in Priester. He is somebody that is one of the fastest risers of the spring and has a great curveball.
21. Atlanta Braves- Logan Davidson, Shortstop, Clemson: There is a lot of buzz surrounding the Braves and Davidson of late to the fact this could indeed be the choice here. He is a switch-hitting shortstop that plays good defense and runs the bases well too.
22. Tampa Bay Rays- Keoni Cavaco, Third Baseman, Eastlake HS (California): Cavaco is one of the drafts fastest risers as the draft is less than a week away. He has huge raw power and a strong defensive profile at the hot corner.
23. Colorado Rockies- Will Wilson, Shortstop/Second Baseman, North Carolina State: Wilson is solid across the board, with a nice swing, decent pop and the arm and quickness to potentially land at short long-term. He has below-average speed, which means he may wind up at second, but he’ll likely hit.
24. Cleveland Indians- Michael Busch, First Baseman/Outfielder, North Carolina: Busch is someone that is very polished and mature as a hitter, but he doesn't have a clear position. He hits for a ton of power and many folks he's a first baseman long term.
25. Los Angeles Dodgers- Gunnar Henderson, Shortstop, John T. Morgan Academy (Alabama): Henderson is someone who's stock is rising to the point that he's in the conversation for best shortstop in the draft. He can hit at a high rate and has some power that has emerged this year.
26. Arizona Diamondbacks (compensation pick)- Daniel Espino, RHP, Georgia Premier Academy: With the second of two first round picks, the Diamondbacks go with a high school righty with a ton of upside in Espino. He offers plenty of good pitches and has big velocity and spin rate.
27. Chicago Cubs- Kody Hoese, Third Baseman, Tulane: The Cubs would love a college arm to fall to them, but they settle here on Hoese. He made some swing changes in summer ball last year that unlocked his natural strength and turned him into a big time power threat.
28. Milwaukee Brewers- Tyler Callihan, Third Baseman, Providence HS (Florida): Callihan profiles similar to Brett Bady due to his being old for the high school class. He is someone else that's worth a first round pick due to the fact he can flat out hit.
29. Oakland Athletics- Greg Jones, Shortstop, UNC Wilmington: Here's another possibility that is gaining momentum. Jones is a player that is among the fastest in the draft and he has intriguing offensive upside.
30. New York Yankees- Kameron Misner, Outfielder, Missouri: Misner is the college prospect with the best tools package among college position players. He has a good lefty swing and significant power potential, plus he draws praise for his makeup and worth ethic, but there are lingering concerns about his ability to make consistent contact at the upper levels.
31. Los Angeles Dodgers (compensation pick)- Braden Shewmake, Shortstop, Texas A&M: The Dodgers decide to go with the college position player in Shewmake. He's a grinder whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts and has outstanding hand-eye coordination and rarely strikes out, and he'll pepper the ball to all fields.
32. Houston Astros- Seth Johnson, RHP, Campbell: Johnson was a shortstop without much of a bat before transferring to Campbell, where he was moved to the mound full-time. He needs a lot of work because of his relative inexperience on the mound, but if he has one of the liveliest arms in the draft.
1. Baltimore Orioles- Adley Rutschman, Catcher, Oregon State: Rutschman is the favorite to go first overall according to many people in the industry, although there is buzz the O's can take Andrew Vaughn here. He would immediately become the Orioles catcher of the future and he could get to the big leagues faster than a lot of folks due to his switch hitting ability and he provides a lot of power.
2. Kansas City Royals- Bobby Witt Jr., Shortstop, Colleyville Heritage HS (Texas): The Royals are a team that wants top tier talent to build around and in their system. Enter Witt, who is a five-tool prospect that hits for a ton of power and projects to be a shortstop long term would immediately become the Royals top prospect.
3. Chicago White Sox- J. J. Bleday, Outfielder, Vanderbilt: Bleday is someone that scouts thought had some power to go with his bat and he's displayed it this year in college. There is a lot of talk about Bleday being the choice here by the White Sox after many have speculated Andrew Vaughn or CJ Abrams.
4. Miami Marlins- Andrew Vaughn, First Baseman, California: The Marlins are a team that lacks college position players in their system. Vaughn is arguably the best all-around hitter in this draft and he could go third to the White Sox. If Vaughn falls here, it's a major win for the Marlins as they finally have a possible franchise player.
5. Detroit Tigers- CJ Abrams, Shortstop, Blessed Trinity HS (California): The Tigers are possibly getting a steal here with Abrams falling to them at five and he's someone that could go third to the White Sox. He is one of the best hitters and athletes in this draft. If it doesn't work out for him as a middle infielder, than he could work out in center field.
6. San Diego Padres- Riley Greene, Outfielder, Hagerty HS (Florida): Greene is the best high school hitter in this draft and the Padres snag him here. They could go with a college hitter here, but they settle on Greene here, who is a below average defensive player which doesn't bode well for a National League club like the Padres.
7. Cincinnati Reds- Nick Lodolo, LHP, TCU: The Reds have a farm system that's loaded with hitters and high school pitchers, but it lacks collegiate arms. Lodolo is the first pitcher taken off the board as he's the best pitcher in the draft and he's someone that has three good pitches.
8. Texas Rangers- Hunter Bishop, Outfielder, Arizona State: The Rangers system lacks college hitters and they take one here in Bishop. The Orioles apparently like him too, but taking him number one overall is a bit of a stretch. Bishop is somebody who's stock has risen from the start of the season to put him in this position.
9. Atlanta Braves (compensation pick)- Jackson Rutledge, RHP, San Jacinto (Texas): A year after not signing Carter Stewart, the Braves take another high school arm in Rutledge. He's shown high velocity and is an analytics darling and that's something the Braves would like.
10. San Francisco Giants- Bryson Stott, Shortstop, UNLV: The Giants have options here and they tend to go with the highly touted shortstop in Stott. He is the best college infielder in the draft class and he projects to be an impact hitter with enough defense to stick at short.
11. Toronto Blue Jays- Corbin Carroll, Outfielder, Lakwood HS (California): The Blue Jays have options here with this selection as they can opt for a college arm here. Carroll is somebody that can rake and makes great contact with a nice left-handed swing, has a ton of speed that works on offense and defense.
12. New York Mets- Zach Thompson, LHP, Kentucky: Many folks are linking Thompson to the Mets and it would be a solid draft choice here. If it weren't for injury concerns, he'd go in the top ten of this draft, but he has put together a great season.
13. Minnesota Twins- Shea Langeliers, Catcher, Baylor: If it weren't for Adley Rutschman, Langeliers would have been the best catcher in this draft. He doesn't have Rutschman's offensive upside, but he's one of the best defensive catchers of the last decade and is hitting better this spring despite a broken hamate that sidelined him for just three weeks.
14. Philadelphia Phillies- Alek Manoah, RHP, West Virginia: The Phillies have options with this pick as they can go in a numerous number of directions. Manoah is the best college righty pitcher in the draft and he's somebody that has improved his walk rate from last year to this year.
15. Los Angeles Angels- Matthew Allan, RHP, Seminole HS (Florida): The Angels have drafted a lot of position players in the first round the past few seasons, but this time around they take a high school arm in Allan. Scouts love his curveball and his fastball, but if he falls far, he may be heading to college rather than the pros.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks- Brett Baty, Third Baseman, Lake Travis HS (Texas): Baty is somebody with tremendous upside and possibly could go higher than this. Some scouts believe he's the best high school hitter and not Riley Greene as he's also shown to hit for average and power. There are teams that won't touch him in the first round because of his age while others don't think he'll last 20 picks.
17. Washington Nationals- Josh Jung, Third Baseman, Texas Tech: Jung is somebody that was thought out to be a top ten or even top five pick prior to this season. He's having a down season, but is still producing solid numbers and he's worth a first round choice due to his past success.
18. Pittsburgh Pirates- Brennan Malone, RHP, IMG Academy (Florida): The Pirates could go in a number of directions here whether that could be a high school or a college position player, but here I have them taking a fast riser in Malone. Malone is somebody that displays four good pitches and I wouldn't rule out him going in the top ten.
19. St. Louis Cardinals- George Kirby, RHP, Elon: The lack of college arms that are first round worthy will push guys like Kirby up the draft boards. He is someone that is a great strike thrower and he lead the country in strikeout-walk ratio to back it up.
20. Seattle Mariners- Quinn Priester, RHP, Cary-Grove HS (Illinois): After having college position players mocked in this spot, I have the Mariners going with the high school arm in Priester. He is somebody that is one of the fastest risers of the spring and has a great curveball.
21. Atlanta Braves- Logan Davidson, Shortstop, Clemson: There is a lot of buzz surrounding the Braves and Davidson of late to the fact this could indeed be the choice here. He is a switch-hitting shortstop that plays good defense and runs the bases well too.
22. Tampa Bay Rays- Keoni Cavaco, Third Baseman, Eastlake HS (California): Cavaco is one of the drafts fastest risers as the draft is less than a week away. He has huge raw power and a strong defensive profile at the hot corner.
23. Colorado Rockies- Will Wilson, Shortstop/Second Baseman, North Carolina State: Wilson is solid across the board, with a nice swing, decent pop and the arm and quickness to potentially land at short long-term. He has below-average speed, which means he may wind up at second, but he’ll likely hit.
24. Cleveland Indians- Michael Busch, First Baseman/Outfielder, North Carolina: Busch is someone that is very polished and mature as a hitter, but he doesn't have a clear position. He hits for a ton of power and many folks he's a first baseman long term.
25. Los Angeles Dodgers- Gunnar Henderson, Shortstop, John T. Morgan Academy (Alabama): Henderson is someone who's stock is rising to the point that he's in the conversation for best shortstop in the draft. He can hit at a high rate and has some power that has emerged this year.
26. Arizona Diamondbacks (compensation pick)- Daniel Espino, RHP, Georgia Premier Academy: With the second of two first round picks, the Diamondbacks go with a high school righty with a ton of upside in Espino. He offers plenty of good pitches and has big velocity and spin rate.
27. Chicago Cubs- Kody Hoese, Third Baseman, Tulane: The Cubs would love a college arm to fall to them, but they settle here on Hoese. He made some swing changes in summer ball last year that unlocked his natural strength and turned him into a big time power threat.
28. Milwaukee Brewers- Tyler Callihan, Third Baseman, Providence HS (Florida): Callihan profiles similar to Brett Bady due to his being old for the high school class. He is someone else that's worth a first round pick due to the fact he can flat out hit.
29. Oakland Athletics- Greg Jones, Shortstop, UNC Wilmington: Here's another possibility that is gaining momentum. Jones is a player that is among the fastest in the draft and he has intriguing offensive upside.
30. New York Yankees- Kameron Misner, Outfielder, Missouri: Misner is the college prospect with the best tools package among college position players. He has a good lefty swing and significant power potential, plus he draws praise for his makeup and worth ethic, but there are lingering concerns about his ability to make consistent contact at the upper levels.
31. Los Angeles Dodgers (compensation pick)- Braden Shewmake, Shortstop, Texas A&M: The Dodgers decide to go with the college position player in Shewmake. He's a grinder whose whole is greater than the sum of the parts and has outstanding hand-eye coordination and rarely strikes out, and he'll pepper the ball to all fields.
32. Houston Astros- Seth Johnson, RHP, Campbell: Johnson was a shortstop without much of a bat before transferring to Campbell, where he was moved to the mound full-time. He needs a lot of work because of his relative inexperience on the mound, but if he has one of the liveliest arms in the draft.
Sunday, May 26, 2019
2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Final Prediction
We have an interesting Stanley Cup Final here. The St. Louis Blues are here for the first time since 1970 and ironically enough they lost to the team that they're facing in this Stanley Cup Final in the Boston Bruins. Will history repeat itself or will the Blues win their first Stanley Cup in franchise history?
(A2) Boston Bruins vs (C3) St. Louis Blues: The Bruins offense has been awesome throughout the postseason led by Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron, David Pasternak, Charlie Coyle, and David Krejci. Their defense is deep led by Torey Krug, Charlie McAvoy, Brandon Carlo, Zdeno Chara, and John Moore. Tukka Rask has to be the favorite to win the Conn Smythe Trophy at this point with his stellar postseason play. The Blues offense has been great too in the postseason led by Vladimir Tarasenko, Ryan O'Reilly, Brayden Schenn, Alex Steen, and David Perron. Their defense has been awesome too led by Alex Pietrangelo, Jay Boumeester, Vince Dunn, and Colton Parayko. Jordan Binnington for the most part has been great in these playoffs with the exception of a few shaky periods. Special teams throughout the postseason have been good for both teams. That said, the Blues have been on a roll since January led by a hot goalie in Binngington (although Rask has been hot too) and with a few magic moments throughout the playoffs, this just feels like their year as the Blues will win their first championship in franchise history as the city will embrace it and sing this song.
Prediction: Blues in six games.
Conn Smythe Trophy Winner: Jordan Binnington
(A2) Boston Bruins vs (C3) St. Louis Blues: The Bruins offense has been awesome throughout the postseason led by Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron, David Pasternak, Charlie Coyle, and David Krejci. Their defense is deep led by Torey Krug, Charlie McAvoy, Brandon Carlo, Zdeno Chara, and John Moore. Tukka Rask has to be the favorite to win the Conn Smythe Trophy at this point with his stellar postseason play. The Blues offense has been great too in the postseason led by Vladimir Tarasenko, Ryan O'Reilly, Brayden Schenn, Alex Steen, and David Perron. Their defense has been awesome too led by Alex Pietrangelo, Jay Boumeester, Vince Dunn, and Colton Parayko. Jordan Binnington for the most part has been great in these playoffs with the exception of a few shaky periods. Special teams throughout the postseason have been good for both teams. That said, the Blues have been on a roll since January led by a hot goalie in Binngington (although Rask has been hot too) and with a few magic moments throughout the playoffs, this just feels like their year as the Blues will win their first championship in franchise history as the city will embrace it and sing this song.
Prediction: Blues in six games.
Conn Smythe Trophy Winner: Jordan Binnington
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