ST. LOUIS -- I’m handing over the keys to yinz for this one.
The Major League Baseball amateur draft is two and a half weeks away, and the Pirates still have not decided who they will pick first overall.
So rather than me make a case for someone, let’s hear from you on who you want. Don't worry about slot bonuses or anything like that. Just the best pure player in your eyes.
Let’s list off the top six prospects, going by MLB Pipeline:
1. Marcelo Mayer SS – Perhaps the most well-rounded out of the position players near the top, Mayer has a good hitter’s profile and can play a premium position. MLB Pipeline drew comparisons to Corey Seager in their bio on him.
2. Jordan Lawlar SS – Lawlar and Mayer have been battling for pole position for this top prospect spot for some time now. It comes down to what tools you value more, hitting or defense? Lawlar has the edge in the latter category.
3. Jack Leiter RHP – Leiter requires no introduction. The stuff is outstanding, but there are concerns about his durability. Was scratched from one start due to fatigue this year.
4. Kahlil Watson SS – The third of the high school shortstops who should go near the top of the draft, Watson has the hit tools and the defensive skills to profile at several different positions.
5. Henry Davis C – The best collegiate hitter available, Davis has a rocket for an arm and profiles well as a hitter. The rest of his defensive profile is only ok, especially in receiving.
6. Kumar Rocker RHP – The consensus top prospect entering 2021, Rocker has fallen off a bit after being only really good instead of dominant for Vanderbilt. Probably not on anyone’s radar in the top three anymore, he’ll be a solid addition for anyone picking five through 10.
YOUR TURN: If you were the Pirates, who would you pick?