The annual community mock draft over at Minorleagueball.com took place this afternoon and I acted as scouting director for the White Sox once again. This mock draft covers rounds 1-4 so I only had two picks (1.8 and 4.112) to make an impact.
Pick 1.18 Tyler Jay, LHP, University of Illinois
Jay was the best player available to me at pick 8 and I think if he makes it there for the sox they will also choose him. He has shot up draft boards recently.
Scouting Report - "He is still not very physical at 6-foot-1 and 175 pounds, but Jay now works at 93-95 mph and peaks at 98 mph with his fastball, even when he works on consecutive days. He generates that heat with athleticism and a quick arm rather than an excessive amount of effort in his delivery. Jay has a deeper repertoire than most relievers. His plus slider is his second-best pitch, and he also has a curveball with power and depth and shows signs of interesting changeup. He has enough pitches and control to lead a pro team to consider trying him as a starter, though he lacks size and could speed to the Majors if he remains a reliever." MLB.com
Pick 4.112 Casey Hughston, OF, Alabama
Scouting Report - "Draft-eligible as a sophomore because he'll turn 21 within 45 days of the Draft (on Day 2 of the Draft, actually), he shows at least average tools across the board.
A physical specimen at 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, Hughston has plus raw power to all fields and the speed to match. He has improved his plate discipline significantly in the last year, though he still can get too aggressive and pull-happy at times.
After playing left field and batting seventh for the Crimson Tide in 2014, Hughston has moved to right field and the cleanup spot this spring. He has the pure speed to play center field, but his reads and routes are still rough after he played mostly infield in high school. He's better suited for the corners and has an average arm." MLB.com
For full first round results
http://www.minorleagueball.com/2015/5/31/8691741/2015-minor-league-ball-community-mock-draft-round-one
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