2009 Draft

[moriartp]

It's about a month away and the speculation is starting to heat up. BA put out their first mock today, projecting the Astros to use their 21st overall pick to take lefty CF Everett Williams out of (where else but) McCallum HS. This of course is all but meaningless and guarantees that he won't be the pick.


Anyone have any thoughts/informed speculation on how things will play out on June 9th?

[JimR]

i have not seen him play, but i have been told he is a stud.

[Russe]

Williams sounds very similar to Jay Austin.

[Jacksonian]

It's about a month away and the speculation is starting to heat up. BA put out their first mock today, projecting the Astros to use their 21st overall pick to take lefty CF Everett Williams out of (where else but) McCallum HS. This of course is all but meaningless and guarantees that he won't be the pick.


Anyone have any thoughts/informed speculation on how things will play out on June 9th?

Actually BA is often very accurate.  I'm not sure about this far out but when they do them the day before the draft they do a pretty good job of guessing.

[moriartp]

Not to say they're inaccurate or that the Astros wouldn't be interested in Williams. It's just awfully difficult to predict the 21st pick a month out.

[juliogotay]

I wish they would take a pitcher or middle infielder. Bourne looks like he can hold down CF for a while and the organization has put a premium on speedy CFer types lately.

[JimR]

Learn to spell, please. This is his second year.

[Jared Novak]

I'd like to see them take a pitcher, hoping that Miller, Brothers, Paxton, Purke or Turner fall to the 21st spot.

I do wonder though if Turner or Purke dropped due to signability issues or salary demands, would the Astros take a chance on these prospects?

[Russe]

Andy Oliver is another guy I wouldn't mind seeing them take. That said, I'm hoping for Jiovanni Mier--for as much as Heck talked up the "up the middle" strategy last year, they didn't take a middle infielder until after the 10th round, and I feel like it's an area they should try to beef up.

[Jacksonian]

One thing you can be sure of.  They will take the guy they believe is the best available player.

[austro]

One thing you can be sure of.  They will take the guy they believe is the best available player.

This sure seems like the soundest strategy. Try to get somebody you're confident can be a major-leaguer. If he doesn't fill a need when he's ready, you can likely package him in a deal to get what you need.

[domedogs]

I agree, you won't get a good sense until a week or two before the draft when you hear rumblings about an increase in scout visits in the homes of these kids.

Personally, I think Williams would be an overdraft here.  I do believe that the SS Jiovanni Mier is interesting at this pick.  But as mentioned, they just need to take the best available player without regards to position.

[Jacksonian]

I agree, you won't get a good sense until a week or two before the draft when you hear rumblings about an increase in scout visits in the homes of these kids.

You'd think.  But, it is VERY often the case that the player drafted was not obviously targeted by the drafting team.

You don't spend resources on guys you're sure of.  You spend them on the ones you are not.  There wasn't a peep about the Astros interest in Castro last year.

[Reuben]

I have no idea what the qualifications are of this site, but they have a Mock Draft that at least is public unlike BA's. They have the Astros taking HS LHP Chad James. Here's mlb.com's report on him; you can skip to reports for dozens of other top-rated guys there as well. Frankly, it boggles my mind a bit to think of all the factors a MLB front office has to weigh in putting together their draft strategy. There's college pitchers projected to go early in the 1st round who have ERAs in the high 5's... then you have to compare those guys to the upside of high school kids... man.

[domedogs]

i have the subscription to BA and they had an interview with the MLB scouting director (MLB scouts all players on their own to give teams a "list" of kids they need to go see.  His rationale was that with no vested interest in the draft, they give all kids a chance at being looked at without all of the politics of the individual organizations). They also have video services that would be impossible for teams to get video of every possible prospect (that's where those videos on the MLB.com scouting reports come from).

He mentioned that stats are not even looked at when teams are scouting someone, especially with pitchers.  They look at arm action, arm speed, their build, how they carry themselves, their delivery(how much work it needs, and is it repeatable) and movement on pitches.  So the fact that some college guys have an ERA of 5 or better probably doesn't even register with the scouts.  he even says that more than half of the scouts don't even look at the radar gun.

Those college guys you speak of  are probably pleasant to watch pitch even though their numbers don't show that.  Projectability is still something to consider even in college kids even though it is a far greater criteria in HS kids.

[jbm]

I find it surprising that 1/2 of the scouts don't look at a radar gun.  Whether they personally view it as important or not, I would think it was at least cya data when recommending talent.

[Noe]

I find it surprising that 1/2 of the scouts don't look at a radar gun.  Whether they personally view it as important or not, I would think it was at least cya data when recommending talent.

I think the context of the comment about radar readings needs to be provided.  I think the general idea is that while scouting kids, you don't look at stats to make a case to your bosses.  It is the best way to get dismissed as a scout not worth your salt.  A hitter, for instance, can have healthy stats, but that is with the use of an aluminum bat and perhaps less than good competition.  Instead, as a scout, you'd rather write home about bat speed, compact swing, good approach, took an outside pitch the other way, turned on an inside pitch, worked the count, did not expand the zone, hit behind a runner, ran hard on a ground ball, ran the bases well, etc.  So in terms of the radar gun, I'm thinking that they won't provide radar gun readings without the other information in place.  If they think providing a radar gun reading of "81" mph is important, then they'll do it... but probably with the caveat of "that will increase as his body size increases and mechanics are strengthened".  As an example: Roy Oswalt threw 82 or so in High School.  Tops.  His smallish size made it almost hard to think he'll one day start topping the radar readings at 96 mph.  So most scouts recommended passing or taking him late in the draft.  Houston selected him as a draft and follow, asking him to go to college to get some more strength and conditioning under his belt.  He did and lo and behold Oswalt started throwing in the low 90s and projecting to get even better.  So Houston paid Oswalt for the improvement because if they did not, Oswalt goes back into the draft and gets 5th round money.

The rest is history.

So in the context of the story I just told you, how important do you think the scout felt a radar reading was?  BTW - most pundits like BA dismissed Houston's selection of Jordan Lyles with a high pick because he was on no one's radar (other than Atlanta).  Why?  Because BA looks at stats to make their judgment and thus could not understand why Houston (or Atlanta) had him rated this high.  Lyles has a great athletic body that could in time add more velocity to his already good stuff.  If he stays healthy and improves, then they will have a really great prospect on their hands.

[juliogotay]

I think the context of the comment about radar readings needs to be provided.  I think the general idea is that while scouting kids, you don't look at stats to make a case to your bosses.  It is the best way to get dismissed as a scout not worth your salt.  A hitter, for instance, can have healthy stats, but that is with the use of an aluminum bat and perhaps less than good competition.  Instead, as a scout, you'd rather write home about bat speed, compact swing, good approach, took an outside pitch the other way, turned on an inside pitch, worked the count, did not expand the zone, hit behind a runner, ran hard on a ground ball, ran the bases well, etc.  So in terms of the radar gun, I'm thinking that they won't provide radar gun readings without the other information in place.  If they think providing a radar gun reading of "81" mph is important, then they'll do it... but probably with the caveat of "that will increase as his body size increases and mechanics are strengthened".  As an example: Roy Oswalt threw 82 or so in High School.  Tops.  His smallish size made it almost hard to think he'll one day start topping the radar readings at 96 mph.  So most scouts recommended passing or taking him late in the draft.  Houston selected him as a draft and follow, asking him to go to college to get some more strength and conditioning under his belt.  He did and lo and behold Oswalt started throwing in the low 90s and projecting to get even better.  So Houston paid Oswalt for the improvement because if they did not, Oswalt goes back into the draft and gets 5th round money.

The rest is history.

So in the context of the story I just told you, how important do you think the scout felt a radar reading was?  BTW - most pundits like BA dismissed Houston's selection of Jordan Lyles with a high pick because he was on no one's radar (other than Atlanta).  Why?  Because BA looks at stats to make their judgment and thus could not understand why Houston (or Atlanta) had him rated this high.  Lyles has a great athletic body that could in time add more velocity to his already good stuff.  If he stays healthy and improves, then they will have a really great prospect on their hands.

Another very good outing last night by Lyles. Heck and Company apparantly know what they are doing. One draftee has even reached AA, Daniel Meszaros a late round pick. BTW, is Steele hurt? I remember Bagwell mentioning him specifically in ST when asked who had impressed him of the youngsters.

[Duman]

Another very good outing last night by Lyles. Heck and Company apparantly know what they are doing. One draftee has even reached AA, Daniel Meszaros a late round pick. BTW, is Steele hurt? I remember Bagwell mentioning him specifically in ST when asked who had impressed him of the youngsters.

Steele is on the DL.  I didn' t have him on the transactions page.  I will fix that.

[domedogs]

I agree with Noe's post.  here is BA's scouting report on Lyles:

Background: The Astros veered off the board in drafting Lyles in 2008 draft. He was not in BA's predraft Top 200, though he was the top prep prospect in South Carolina and briefly flirted with playing college football as a receiver. He signed for $930,000 on the night of his high school graduation, spurning a University of South Carolina scholarship.

Strengths: Lyles has a free and easy, classic delivery that the Astros say needs little tweaking. He shelved his cutter once in pro ball, and saw an immediate improvement in his fastball as it jumped from 86-88 mph in the spring to 90-96 all summer. He had good command of it even with the added velocity. His curveball has rotation and shape to it, and he also has shown a feel for a changeup.

Weaknesses: Consistency will be paramount as Lyles advances through the system. He has trouble repeating his secondary stuff, especially the curveball. It flattens out at times. He has a tendency to elevate his fastball, and that will get him knocked around higher up in the minors.

The Future: Lyles projects to be a solid No. 3 starter at this point, with a shot to be a No. 2. The Astros have plenty of time to nurture him and will tag-team him with Ross Seaton at Lexington to open 2008.

the radar gun wouldn't have told you much about lyles, but obviously the Astros figured out that if he gave up the cutter, he'd pick up some velocity...

i was just trying to make the point earlier that Velocity and Stats are not essential corner posts to finding elite talent. 

[Mr. Happy]

I was just trying to make the point earlier that Velocity and Stats are not essential corner posts to finding elite talent. 

Here Here! Randy Jones threw in the 70-78 mph range and won 20 games in the big leagues twice. But he had a sinker that dropped about a foot.

[cc]

I'd like to see them take a pitcher, hoping that Miller, Brothers, Paxton, Purke or Turner fall to the 21st spot.

I do wonder though if Turner or Purke dropped due to signability issues or salary demands, would the Astros take a chance on these prospects?

Selfishly, I'm rooting for Matt Purke to be the pick.  My son played with him last year at Klein, so it would be cool to see him become a Stro.  I didn't see him pitch this year, but he may have been even more dominant as a junior.  Just ask Georgetown HS how unhittable he was in the playoffs.  They beat us 2 out of 3 in the third round, but they were no-hit by him in the opener and barely scratched off him in Game 3 in relief.  He was the ace of the staff last summer at the World Series too.  He outshined Matzek and everyone else.  He's committed to TCU, but I don't see that as a serious option.  He's a tall, lanky, hard-throwing lefty, so they usually get scooped up early.

[Jared Novak]

I'm definitely looking forward to hearing an interview or reading something from Bobby Heck or Ed Wade about their approach to the draft this year. I'm sure its still BPA, but last year Heck mentioned that they were looking at players that could keep them strong up the middle of the field.

I'd definitely like to see Purke drop as well. There is something nice about drafting local guys who grew up fans of the team (like Seaton last year). I seriously doubt that Purke falls to 21, but you never know.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I have no idea what the qualifications are of this site, but they have a Mock Draft that at least is public unlike BA's...

They put a lot of effort into their site, they've probably put a lot of effort into their research too. Any mock draft is a guessing game, an exercise in make believe, and fluffy filler for the obsessive reader, but people who make a big deal of a participating in a mock draft generally want to be kind of accurate, so as to look less foolish.

[MusicMan]

Selfishly, I'm rooting for Matt Purke to be the pick.  My son played with him last year at Klein, so it would be cool to see him become a Stro.  I didn't see him pitch this year, but he may have been even more dominant as a junior.  Just ask Georgetown HS how unhittable he was in the playoffs.  They beat us 2 out of 3 in the third round, but they were no-hit by him in the opener and barely scratched off him in Game 3 in relief.  He was the ace of the staff last summer at the World Series too.  He outshined Matzek and everyone else.  He's committed to TCU, but I don't see that as a serious option.  He's a tall, lanky, hard-throwing lefty, so they usually get scooped up early.

According to BP (insert grain of salt), Purke is looking for a $5M contract, so they have him going to the Yankees at 29.

[moriartp]

BA's second mock came out today (subscription required). They've changed their guess on the Astros' #21 overall pick to college RHP Kyle Heckathorn, but it seems as though they don't know of any specific players the team is targeting. For what it's worth, the player they project going at #22, HS righty Matt Hobgood, sounds more like a Bobby Heck-type choice to me. But I really don't have enough knowledge to speculate on such matters. I know they'll take the best guy available, whomever they deem it to be.


They do add that Everett Williams, their previous guess, "apparently isn't in the Astros' mix."

[Jared Novak]

Good article on Purke in the paper.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/sports/hso/6449146.html

[Noe]

I know they'll take the best guy available, whomever they deem it to be.

Heard a radio segment the other day with Ed Wade and he said this very thing "we're looking at this spot as a take the best guy available".  He didn't tip his hand who he thought that would be.  Really strange to think that a pitcher of some sort isn't the target, although maybe that is the best available regardless.

[astrosfan76]

Heard a radio segment the other day with Ed Wade and he said this very thing "we're looking at this spot as a take the best guy available".  He didn't tip his hand who he thought that would be.  Really strange to think that a pitcher of some sort isn't the target, although maybe that is the best available regardless.

During his most recent chat through the Chronicle, Heck said that he felt HS pitching was the strength of this year's draft.  Granted, it was a few months back and things can change, but at that point, he felt it was the strength.  That doesn't mean that the best player available at #21 will be a HS pitcher; that will factor greatly on picks #1-20.  But, it shouldn't come as a surprise, at all, if they do nab one. 

On a side note, the above article had a line about Purke's bonus demands.  I've read the $5M rumors and felt that it was unlikely we would draft a player with demands that high.  But, if Justice is right about $3M being the low end of his demands, I could see that working out, with the club having fewer high picks this year.  Whether other teams would still shy away from $3M, though, is less certain.

[Noe]

One comment Wade made about the draft was it wasn't a draft group this year that had elite players other than Strassburg and a handful of others.  What they think is that this is deep draft.  He went on to say that Heck believes many 2nd rounders will have to wait to the third round to be taken because the draft is very deep.  What that will do to the slot money is anyone's guess.  Methinks that many guys know that they are just as good as others and if they're taken in the third or fourth round, they'll be asking for second round bonuses.

In year's past, signability was a problem with Houston.  Even if you discount what has been said recently about the Astros, the fact that some kids will ask for second round money is probably not lost to the team.  It will be interesting to see if Houston reacts with "well, they're right, these guys would normally go in a second round, so they should get that sort of slot money" or if they say "Drayton said no, we can't go against the Commissioner's wishes".

[astrosfan76]

One comment Wade made about the draft was it wasn't a draft group this year that had elite players other than Strassburg and a handful of others.  What they think is that this is deep draft.  He went on to say that Heck believes many 2nd rounders will have to wait to the third round to be taken because the draft is very deep.  What that will do to the slot money is anyone's guess.  Methinks that many guys know that they are just as good as others and if they're taken in the third or fourth round, they'll be asking for second round bonuses.

In year's past, signability was a problem with Houston.  Even if you discount what has been said recently about the Astros, the fact that some kids will ask for second round money is probably not lost to the team.  It will be interesting to see if Houston reacts with "well, they're right, these guys would normally go in a second round, so they should get that sort of slot money" or if they say "Drayton said no, we can't go against the Commissioner's wishes".

I've read that same sentiment about the draft having a lot of depth of good, but not elite guys, elsewhere.  Which, if it is an industry-wide sentiment, means, yeah, there will probably be guys later on wanting higher-round money.  On the flip side, it will be interesting to see how things go with the guys drafted later in the first round.  If agents are clamoring for the guys drafted in the 3rd round to be paid based on talent, will teams counter that the guys who would normally be drafted in the supplemental round, but went higher than that because of the few elite options be paid supplemental money?  MLB supposedly has cut slot by 10% already, but that wouldn't necessarily put guys on par with what their talent would dictate in a different draft. 

As far as how it will affect the Astros, I'm anxious/nervous to see.  When the club has gone above slot, it has been after the first couple of rounds.  But, that's also been when they have been burned.  Hopefully, last year's early returns will sway Drayton and he will be flexible enough that they can go BPA every time and sign all of their guys. 

[Mike S.]

He didn't tip his hand who he thought that would be.

From what I've been reading, no one outside the organization seems to know whom the Astros are going to select with the 21st pick.

[Astroholic]

From what I've been reading, no one outside the organization seems to know whom the Astros are going to select with the 21st pick.

Which is usually the case.

[Mike S.]

In year's past, signability was a problem with Houston.  Even if you discount what has been said recently about the Astros, the fact that some kids will ask for second round money is probably not lost to the team.  It will be interesting to see if Houston reacts with "well, they're right, these guys would normally go in a second round, so they should get that sort of slot money" or if they say "Drayton said no, we can't go against the Commissioner's wishes".

If the player is a second round talent who's picked later in the draft for one reason or another, I have a hard time believing the Astros won't offer higher than slot money.  If he's someone like Derek Dietrich who wasn't considered a first or second round talent but was asking for that kind of money regardless, I doubt the Astros go above slot, which means it'll be construed as the organization acquiescing to Selig once again.  But, I digress.

[Mike S.]

Which is usually the case.

As I believe Jacksonian said, Baseball America and other reputable sources usually release fairly accurate mock drafts this close to the event itself.  That doesn't seem to be the case with respect to the Astros.

[Jacksonian]

From what I've been reading, no one outside the organization seems to know whom the Astros are going to select with the 21st pick.

The Astros don't know who they're going to select at 21.  They won't know until #20 is selected.

[Jacksonian]

As I believe Jacksonian said, Baseball America and other reputable sources usually release fairly accurate mock drafts this close to the event itself.  That doesn't seem to be the case with respect to the Astros.

They're esp good up to about #15 or so.  This draft has so few can't misses and quite a few good prospects that it's going to be tough for anyone to guess what's going to happen this time.

[Jacksonian]

If the player is a second round talent who's picked later in the draft for one reason or another, I have a hard time believing the Astros won't offer higher than slot money.  If he's someone like Derek Dietrich who wasn't considered a first or second round talent but was asking for that kind of money regardless, I doubt the Astros go above slot, which means it'll be construed as the organization acquiescing to Selig once again.  But, I digress.

At this point the Astros will offer what they think the player is worth, above or below slot.

[Mike S.]

The Astros would pay below slot, then, for a fifth rounder if they considered him to be the best player left on their board, but one who's not ordinarily considered a fifth round talent?

[Jacksonian]

The Astros would pay below slot, then, for a fifth rounder if they considered him to be the best player left on their board, but one who's not ordinarily considered a fifth round talent?

I don't know if that would be the case, but it often happens that a player signs below slot, esp past the first 2 or 3 rounds, for a variety of reasons.

[Noe]

Great conversation.  My understanding is that the Astros, like many other organizations will have a pick between a ton of really good second rounder types.  They will have to pay for it if it's a latter round pick.  I say they'll be smart about it and pay up.  No one should read too much into that though, it's good business, unlike bad business overpaying a draft pick as if he were the first pick in the draft.  Some kids just got wrong advice and that is about as much as can be said about that.

[Mike S.]

On a related question, how much of the Astros' draft board and the valuation they put on on a player is determined by a specific philosophy versus taking players who are considered the best available?  I assume the former influences the latter? (i.e. "this is the type of player we want, therefore the players who have those tools are the best available") 

Specifically, I'm thinking of the 2003 draft where Hunsicker stated that the goal heading in was to get more lefthanded hitting and speed into the farm system.

[Jared Novak]

On a related question, how much of the Astros' draft board and the valuation they put on on a player is determined by a specific philosophy versus taking players who are considered the best available?  I assume the former influences the latter? (i.e. "this is the type of player we want, therefore the players who have those tools are the best available") 

Specifically, I'm thinking of the 2003 draft where Hunsicker stated that the goal heading in was to get more lefthanded hitting and speed into the farm system.

Bobby Heck stated last year that they were looking for all-around players that are considered "complete". Here's an article from last year where Heck describes what the Astros are looking for. https://secure.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080515&content_id=2710321&vkey=draft2008&fext=.jsp

[Mike S.]

Thanks, bud.  I understand Heck's approach in taking "best available".  But, is that determination based on a specific strategy, a la 2003 (according Hunsicker's comments), or identifying players with the best tools (for lack of a better term)?

[Noe]

Thanks, bud.  I understand Heck's approach in taking "best available".  But, is that determination based on a specific strategy, a la 2003 (according Hunsicker's comments), or identifying players with the best tools (for lack of a better term)?

Hunsicker and his Scouting Director basically adhered to the philosophy of pitching first and foremost.  They also believed in college pitchers because they could move them along quicker in their minds than they could a high schooler.  I think the only high school pitcher they took with a high draft pick that I could remember was Robert Steihl (sp?), who was actually a catcher who sometimes pitched as a closer (he had a tremendous arm).  Steihl eventually hurt his arm trying to adjust his mechanics and never recovered and is now out of baseball.  So I would say that Hunsicker stockpiled pitchers because to him, it was a recipe for success.  Lance Berkman was an exception because they never thought he'd fall into the slot they were picking (I believe it was the #16 slot in the first round).  Chris Burke was another exception and that is what led to a parting of ways with Lakey and Hunsicker because Lakey told them to take Burke with the tenth overall pick and Hunsicker was wary of that pick.

Heck on the other hand seems to concentrate on just players, not necessarily pitching.  If it's a player, he's going to take him, but if you have a position player and a pitcher of equal value in their eyes, I suspect they will take the pitcher.  Last year they took a catcher and it was a college catcher who is doing well (Castro).  It seems like a fast track mentality with Castro so that probably played a lot into their decision.  Remember, they passed on Justin Smoak to get Castro, a true position player as opposed to just a bat (future DH in the making).  Heck seems to be able to pick out players quite well, so in my estimation if a player is around that is a guy they really like and have high on their board, they'll take him.  I don't think it will be to fill a need like last year, it will be truly be best player on the board by the time we pick.

[Duder]

  I think the only high school pitcher they took with a high draft pick that I could remember was Robert Steihl (sp?), who was actually a catcher who sometimes pitched as a closer (he had a tremendous arm).  Steihl eventually hurt his arm trying to adjust his mechanics and never recovered and is now out of baseball. 

I actually believe we drafted Stiehl after he attended JUCO.

[Noe]

I actually believe we drafted Stiehl after he attended JUCO.

Hmmm... you may be right, but I did remember him being very young and a bit of a reach as a draftee for Hunsicker.  He had an arm though... a great raw arm that got hurt and never recovered.

[Reuben]

Mayo at mlb.com has his full first round predictions... has the Astros taking LSU OF Jared Mitchell. Some pretty interesting names being projected to go after the Astros' #21 pick... including Matt Purke and Jiovanni Mier.

Also, on the main draft page, there's an Astros-specific report, but it really doesn't say anything you don't already know.

[Reuben]

By the way, just noticed that he's projecting that 14 out of the first 15 picks will be pitchers... wow.

[OregonStrosFan]

McTaggart addresses the Astros '09 draft generally at Astros.com: Restocking the system is the goal

In about 50 words
The Astros won't have as many early picks as they did in 2008, but general manager Ed Wade and scouting director Bobby Heck still plan to find impact players in a continuing effort to restock Houston' s evolving Minor League system. The Astros own three of the first 100 selections.

The scoop
"After last year's Draft we feel good about the quality of depth we have, but there are a lot of areas that need to be addressed and upgraded. Along those lines, my approach is the same as last year. We need to add depth. We're not in position to address needs yet. We need to stack up another class like we did last year. We'd maybe be reluctant to pick a catcher high in the Draft because of what we added last year. *** But we need to keep adding a lot of talent everywhere. "
-- Heck

First-round buzz
The Astros don't pick until 20 others have selected in the first round, so a lot could change. Expect Houston to continue to try to rebuild its Minor League system by taking the best athlete available, but don't be surprised if it goes after pitching. There could be a pair of intriguing left-handers available in Kentucky's James Paxton and Lipscomb's Rex Brothers, but if athletic high school center fielder Everett Williams of Austin, Texas, is available the Astros might not be able to pass him up.

[moriartp]

BA has yet another mock draft up and yet another projection for the Astros. This time they agree with Mayo on LSU CF Jared Mitchell. The 'stros are said to be "linked to" Texas HS outfielders Randal Grichuk and Slade Heathcott--anything there but the geographic connection?


They add that the Astros will "almost certainly take a bat." Not sure where that came from. Anyone heard anything similar?

[Russe]

They add that the Astros will "almost certainly take a bat." Not sure where that came from. Anyone heard anything similar?

No, but I sure do hope they're wrong--there's a lot of good pitching to be had in the 1st round this year. Besides, outfield is one of the few positions where we actually have organizational depth--if they're dead set set on taking a bat first, I hope it's an infield one.

[otterjb]

Saw that the MLB network is broadcasting the draft on tv live, that's the first time ever, no? Should be fun to watch even though the MLB draft is so much different than in other sports. I'll be really interested to see what kind of players the Astros select.

[Jacksonian]

Saw that the MLB network is broadcasting the draft on tv live, that's the first time ever, no? Should be fun to watch even though the MLB draft is so much different than in other sports. I'll be really interested to see what kind of players the Astros select.

It was on tv last year.  This is the first time it starts this late.

[astrosfan76]

BA has yet another mock draft up and yet another projection for the Astros. This time they agree with Mayo on LSU CF Jared Mitchell. The 'stros are said to be "linked to" Texas HS outfielders Randal Grichuk and Slade Heathcott--anything there but the geographic connection?


They add that the Astros will "almost certainly take a bat." Not sure where that came from. Anyone heard anything similar?

Heathcott is an interesting candidate.  I've seen Mitchell's name around, though I haven't seen anyone say that he, in fact, is someone they are targeting.  He would make sense on some levels:  great athlete, has upside.  The question with him is how much his power develops.  MiLB's scouting report on Heathcott makes him seem like an exciting player, also.  I've read that they are looking to add some power bats in the draft and Heathcott would fit the bill.  Throw in plus hitting ability to go with his plus power and other tools and he could be a good pick.  Hadn't seen the "almost certainly take a bat" quote, though. 

[astrosfan76]

No, but I sure do hope they're wrong--there's a lot of good pitching to be had in the 1st round this year. Besides, outfield is one of the few positions where we actually have organizational depth--if they're dead set set on taking a bat first, I hope it's an infield one.

No one knows for sure until the names are being announced, but the sense is that a lot of teams are going to be going after pitching.  If the BPA at our pick ends up being a hitter, we shouldn't go with a lesser pitcher just to take one.  The same goes with choosing an infielder over an outfielder.  Outside of catchers, there aren't many 1st-round caliber infielders in this draft.  Heck's said that we're not at a point to draft based on need, so, regardless of depth, the guy highest on their board should be the one picked. 

[Jared Novak]

I have a hard time believing that if Purke makes it to #21, that the Astros don't take him. I know the "reported" price tag, but with a chance to pick up one of the best (arguably the best) left-handed prep pitchers, who happens to be a local kid, I don't think the Astros pass him up. Unless they have someone else targeted or there is another player on their board that rates higher.

Listened to Bobby Heck talk to David Delotti (sp?) on 790, Heck ssaid that the scouting dept. has projected into the second round and feels that the Astros can get a lot of depth out of this draft and believes that they can have just as good a haul as last year.

[Duman]

Footer let's us know a few details about the work out at MMP.

The Astros hosted a workout on the field at Minute Maid Park for players they have their eye on as potential draftees. Forty-eight players -- a combination of pitchers and hitters -- from all parts of the country traveled to Houston on their own dime to strut their stuff in front of Astros front office execs and the scouts who have pursued them....The list of participants included players from the high school, junior college and college levels, and they traveled from all over: by my count, there were 17 states represented, and one country -- Puerto Rico -- from which three players traveled for this workout. The states
included California (11), Florida (6), South Carolina (2), Georgia (3), Massachusetts (1), Alabama (2), New York (1), Missouri (1), Texas (7), Illinois (1), West Virginia (1), Louisiana (1), Oklahoma (1), Indiana (1), Pennsylvania (1), Arizona (2) and North Carolina (2).

By school level, there were 24 high school players, 17 college and five junior college. 

[Noe]

Last year, the early chalk picks (mock drafts) tagged Houston as needing a pitcher and thus if one fell to them (such as the left hander from So. Cal.) then they would take him.  Lo and behold nothing of the sort happened, instead Heck and Co. took a really good looking player who happened to be a catcher - Jason Castro.  So the pundit made fun of Houston's "reach pick at number 10".  Drafts take five years to pan out, but so far so good for Castro and the pick.  All this is to say that:

1. While need is one thing, the Astros under Heck really just might go for best player on their board regardless of need (by and large).
2. If they have needs (and they do), they'll address it with draft choices in appropriate rounds.  Houston did take pitching last year, just not with their first pick.  Instead they took studs in Lyles, Seaton and Dylabunchaotherlettersmostlyconstanants.

So I expect Houston to fill needs, but with the first pick, it's probably going to be best available and then they will work their way down to needs following that pick.

[Reuben]

I bet you are right, with the caveat that I think their definition of "best" might lean slightly more towards well-rounded players than other orgs, and less towards one-dimensional 1B/LF/DH types.

[Noe]

I bet you are right, with the caveat that I think their definition of "best" might lean slightly more towards well-rounded players than other orgs, and less towards one-dimensional 1B/LF/DH types.

Which would explain why Houston was not starry-eye awestruck by Justin Smoak last year when he was available.  He was available, pundits and fans thought they should pick him and yet they took the more well-rounded Jason Castro plus a trio of really good turing into high ceiling pitchers.

[Jacksonian]

Best available player.  Not best available hitter.

[OregonStrosFan]

Wonder how far Kyle Gibson will fall after being diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right forearm.

[Jacksonian]

Wonder how far Kyle Gibson will fall after being diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right forearm.

That likely depends on how long doctors think he'll be out.  If he can throw before Aug 15 then not too far.  If he can't then he might make to #21 or beyond.

[Reuben]

BA has yet another mock draft up and yet another projection for the Astros. This time they agree with Mayo on LSU CF Jared Mitchell. The 'stros are said to be "linked to" Texas HS outfielders Randal Grichuk and Slade Heathcott--anything there but the geographic connection?


They add that the Astros will "almost certainly take a bat." Not sure where that came from. Anyone heard anything similar?

Mayo has a brand-new mock 1st round up. He still sees the Astros going for Mitchell. He did a chat today and I asked him which current/former major leaguer he would compare Mitchell to (as far as his "ceiling" goes). His answer: "Hmm, very athletic, hope he'll hit for power eventually with speed. How about Garret Anderson with more speed?"

BA also elaborated on their earlier point, saying "We keep hearing outfielders, outfielders and more outfielders for the Astros, especially those with Texas connections, such as high schoolers Everett Williams, Slade Heathcott and Randal Grichuk. If they look out of state, Mitchell, Pollock, Jackson, New Jersey prepster Mike Trout and Puerto Rican high school Reymond Fuentes are also talented."

[cc]

I have a hard time believing that if Purke makes it to #21, that the Astros don't take him. I know the "reported" price tag, but with a chance to pick up one of the best (arguably the best) left-handed prep pitchers, who happens to be a local kid, I don't think the Astros pass him up. Unless they have someone else targeted or there is another player on their board that rates higher.

Some things I've discovered about Purke -- you can take for what it's worth:

1. Asking price is more like $7M.
2. He was in Arlington over the weekend, having breakfast yesterday with Nolan Ryan and then having a private workout for him.  Apparently they are seriously considering ponying up the premium he's alleged to be seeking.
3. He's been looking at Boras as his agent.

Given these considerations, if true, the Astros are likely looking elsewhere.

[Russe]

That likely depends on how long doctors think he'll be out.  If he can throw before Aug 15 then not too far.  If he can't then he might make to #21 or beyond.

Assuming the medical report isn't catastrophic, I'd hope the Astros would take Gibson at #21 even if he wasn't ready to throw. Then again, I'd take Tanner Scheppers over any of the outfielders listed above, so what do I know?

[Andyzipp]

For those that are interested, Bobby Heck will be on 1560 (www.1560thegame.com) at 2:00 or so today, talking about the draft.

[Hornstros]

Assuming the medical report isn't catastrophic, I'd hope the Astros would take Gibson at #21 even if he wasn't ready to throw.

Callis at BA said Gibson has a stress fracture and will be shut down for 6 weeks.....so should be able to throw before Aug 15th.

[cc]

For those that are interested, Bobby Heck will be on 1560 (www.1560thegame.com) at 2:00 or so today, talking about the draft.

Anybody have a summary?  I mean, other than he intends to take the best player available?  Like, perhaps, he plans to throw a curve and select the most marginal player available?

Thanks

[Hornstros]

For those that are interested, Bobby Heck will be on 1560 (www.1560thegame.com) at 2:00 or so today, talking about the draft.

I wasn't able to listen, but i'd love to hear some reports from anyone who was able to listen.   I'm curious if Heck confirmed or denied the outfielder angle BA is reporting

[Jacksonian]

I wasn't able to listen, but i'd love to hear some reports from anyone who was able to listen.   I'm curious if Heck confirmed or denied the outfielder angle BA is reporting

I listened until after 2:30 and he never came on.  Nor did they plug him from 2 onward.

[MusicMan]

Last-minute prep for the possibility of Strasburg falling to 21.

[astrosfan76]

Heck did meet with the media this afternoon and McTaggart had a wrapup in his blog.  Key points:

1.  "Heck said the draft is getting a bad rap for not having much talent. He said it's deep in high school pitching and lacking some college bats."  But, he later adds that he's glad he doesn't have the #10 pick again, since there aren't many of those level of players.  The caliber of player in the second half of the first round is similar and after that there is depth.

2.  With where they feel the farm is, they're going to take BPA (no surprise).  The only position they'll shy away from is catching where "if I have two players at positions that are side by side and one's a catcher, I'd opt for another position." 

[OregonStrosFan]

Blake Smith was one of the 46 at MMPUS last week.  LINK

Major League Baseball's 2009 first-year player draft begins today, and Smith is regarded as a high prospect as both a right-handed pitcher and outfielder. He says he enjoys both roles and isn't sure where he will end up, but he is eager to pursue either job.

"Whatever team picks me up, whatever they see me as or like me more as, that's what I'm going to do," Smith said.

Jackson flew to Houston for a workout with the Astros last week and also has had workouts with the Giants and Arizona Diamondbacks. The Giants have the sixth choice, Arizona has the 16th and 17th picks, and Houston selects 21st.

"It's an exciting time for me," Jackson said. "This is something I've anticipated for a long time. But it's something I don't want to let rest. I truly want to improve all aspects of my game. Being a five-tool player is my responsibility. Work ethic turns out to be my sixth tool; it inevitably affects the five other ones."

[austro]

Blake Smith was one of the 46 at MMPUS last week.  LINK

Major League Baseball's 2009 first-year player draft begins today, and Smith is regarded as a high prospect as both a right-handed pitcher and outfielder. He says he enjoys both roles and isn't sure where he will end up, but he is eager to pursue either job.

"Whatever team picks me up, whatever they see me as or like me more as, that's what I'm going to do," Smith said.

Jackson flew to Houston for a workout with the Astros last week and also has had workouts with the Giants and Arizona Diamondbacks. The Giants have the sixth choice, Arizona has the 16th and 17th picks, and Houston selects 21st.

"It's an exciting time for me," Jackson said. "This is something I've anticipated for a long time. But it's something I don't want to let rest. I truly want to improve all aspects of my game. Being a five-tool player is my responsibility. Work ethic turns out to be my sixth tool; it inevitably affects the five other ones."

I think the Houston workout was for Smith's teammate, Brett Jackson. Smith may also have been there, but I didn't get that from the article.

[Duman]

Pictures of pre draft work out at MMP of Tanner Bushue

[moriartp]

Another site also has the pics and gives one more name: Chad James, HS LHP from Oklahoma, expected to go in the first round.

[MusicMan]

Another site also has the pics and gives one more name: Chad James, HS LHP from Oklahoma, expected to go in the first round.

This is who noted mediot Keith Law projects the Astros to take.

[moriartp]

Right now he's projecting Jiovanni Mier (as is BA after this morning's final mock draft), but notes that the Astros would probably take James if he were available.


...draft coverage is like crack.


BA on Bushue: "An extremely athletic 6-foot-4, 180-pounder, he repeats his delivery well and throws with little effort. That allows him to maintain his 88-90 mph fastball into the late innings, and he can reach 93 mph with the promise of more to come. Bushue's curveball is a solid-average pitch, though he needs to use it more often, and he also messes around with a slider. He hasn't made much progress with a changeup, a pitch he'll need to remain a starter at higher levels. He has signed with John A. Logan (Ill.) CC rather than a four-year school and should be signable in the first 10 rounds. A team that believes in his upside could pop Bushue as early as the fourth round."

[hostros7]

Anyone know why the draft starts in the evening?  I find that somewhat odd for some reason.

[Andyzipp]

Anyone know why the draft starts in the evening?  I find that somewhat odd for some reason.

MLB's attempt to make it a "for-televison" event ala the NFL & NBA drafts.

[hostros7]

That makes sense considering ESPN has been talking non-fucking-stop about Strasburg, so joe TV viewer will at least know 1 player drafted in the 1st round.  Should make for real exciting television.  Hopefully, Steve Phillips can enlighten us all with his extensive wisdom regarding drafting and developing major league talent. 

[Reuben]

Not on ESPN. The 1st round's on MLB Network, all rounds thereafter on mlb.com. We are saved from Steve Phillips.

[jaklewein]

Not on ESPN. The 1st round's on MLB Network, all rounds thereafter on mlb.com. We are saved from Steve Phillips.

When does it start?  I thought it started at 11:30am today.  I'm going to be disappointed apparently.

[hostros7]

When does it start?  I thought it started at 11:30am today.  I'm going to be disappointed apparently.

As did I.  I distinctly remember MLB draft day being one of the most wonderful days of procrasination/internet amusement I had all of last year.  My heart sunk, but I'm sure my boss is grateful and my IT department can feel better about my time spent at the office.

Thanks for the heads up on MLB network.  I effing hate steve phillips. 

[Ebby Calvin]

When does it start?  I thought it started at 11:30am today.  I'm going to be disappointed apparently.

5:15 CST

[Reuben]

MLB Network's coverage starts at 6 EST, or 5 CST if you prefer. I guess we'll have to content ourselves with 6 more hours of complete and utter speculation. This Mier kid sounds interesting...

[Russe]

Right now he's projecting Jiovanni Mier (as is BA after this morning's final mock draft), but notes that the Astros would probably take James if he were available.

That mock draft has USC SS Grant Green slipping out of the first round. I'm a fan of Mier, but if Green is there at #21, that would be pretty hard to pass up, even with the underwhelming season and Boras as his adviser.

[jbm]

I wonder if the pitch speed measurements on prospects are reliable at all.  Watching the Texas/TCU series, almost all of the scouting reports on pitch speed were about 4 mph higher than their fastest pitch during the game.  Lots of the prospects I've been reading about lately, from this year and last, are often reported as 90-94 or so.  I doubt it.  How often do pitchers on the Astros top 94?  Oswalt on occasion, Paulino, Valverde, Hawkins?  

[austro]

I wonder if the pitch speed measurements on prospects are reliable at all.  Watching the Texas/TCU series, almost all of the scouting reports on pitch speed were about 4 mph higher than their fastest pitch during the game.  Lots of the prospects I've been reading about lately, from this year and last, are often reported as 90-94 or so.  I doubt it.  How often do pitchers on the Astros top 94?  Oswalt on occasion, Paulino, Valverde, Hawkins? 

The game the other day (Sunday?) had one of the Astros (Fulchino, I think) hit 99. JD and I both doubted that. I wonder if the MinuteMaid gun is a little generous.

[Jacksonian]

As my in-laws are in town it's highly unlikely I'll be here for the draft tonight.  I might get to see the Astros first pick.  Depends on whether my kids harass them enough to leave before 6 CDT.

At 21 I'd expect the Astros wouldn't pick until at least 6pm CDT.

[Duman]

We have an APB for a bus driver for the draft.  It is my 19th wedding anniversary tonight and I will be out of pocket as well.

[BudGirl]

congrats on the anniversary.

[hostros7]

The game the other day (Sunday?) had one of the Astros (Fulchino, I think) hit 99. JD and I both doubted that. I wonder if the MinuteMaid gun is a little generous.

Fulchino at 99=Strasburg at 103.  Pure fiction.

[juliogotay]

The game the other day (Sunday?) had one of the Astros (Fulchino, I think) hit 99. JD and I both doubted that. I wonder if the MinuteMaid gun is a little generous.

I've heard JD say that it is.

[Sleepy]

Pam reports the gun numbers.

[Jacksonian]

Right now Callis at BA says he's fairly certain the Pirates, #4, are going to take Sanchez the BC catcher.  That's significant for the Astros for as we know they aren't really looking catcher at #21.  So every catcher taken before 21 means another player or pitcher the Astros like gets moved down toward them.

For those that follow mock drafts I don't think there's single mock that had Sanchez going that high.  Too, pray Sanchez and 1 or 2 of the high school catchers go before 21.

[jmontessi]

Right now Callis at BA says he's fairly certain the Pirates, #4, are going to take Sanchez the BC catcher. 

Via ESPN Insider, Keith Law confirms the Pirates already have a deal in place for Sanchez.
http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=4246090&name=mlb_draft

[Reuben]

Right now Callis at BA says he's fairly certain the Pirates, #4, are going to take Sanchez the BC catcher.  That's significant for the Astros for as we know they aren't really looking catcher at #21.  So every catcher taken before 21 means another player or pitcher the Astros like gets moved down toward them.

For those that follow mock drafts I don't think there's single mock that had Sanchez going that high.  Too, pray Sanchez and 1 or 2 of the high school catchers go before 21.

Most mocks seemed to have Scheppers going late first round, and now Gibson and even Crow appear like they may fall towards the bottom. You think there's any likelihood of the Astros taking one of them?

[Jacksonian]

Most mocks seemed to have Scheppers going late first round, and now Gibson and even Crow appear like they may fall towards the bottom. You think there's any likelihood of the Astros taking one of them?

They will take the player that is highest on their board whoever that happens to be.

[MusicMan]

Please tell me the commissioner did not just step up to a podium that is in the "batter's box" of a hideous faux-field.

[matadorph]

Strasburg goes to the Nats.

[matadorph]

Dustin Ackley to the Mariners. LH hitter from UNC.

[moriartp]

It's Woody! (at the Padres' table)

[MusicMan]

It's Woody! (at the Padres' table)

I think Frasier Crane would have been a better choice.

[matadorph]

Selig is so fucking bad at this.

[matadorph]

Callis is 3-for-3

[Reuben]

I wondered if that was Woody W. What happened to the teams' special guest (the Astros have Biggio, IIRC) announcing their picks? Having Selig lumber up there repeatedly is boring as hell.

[austro]

Having Selig lumber up there repeatedly is boring as hell.

Perhaps he'll trip. That would be amusing.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Woody? Seriously? Was Bip Roberts not available?

[matadorph]

Live link

[Reuben]

Woody? Seriously? Was Bip Roberts not available?

I loved Bip Roberts. I used to have him on my fantasy/rotisserie team all the time back in the day.

[OregonStrosFan]

Hobgood at 5th?  Thought he was projecting to go in the bottom half of th 1st RD.

Where did Calis have him going?

[moriartp]

Hobgood at 5th?  Thought he was projecting to go in the bottom half of th 1st RD.

That was before the other HS pitchers started throwing out insane bonus demands.

[moriartp]

Giants take HS righty Zack Wheeler, Selig goes back in time 100 years.

[Reuben]

Hobgood at 5th?  Thought he was projecting to go in the bottom half of th 1st RD.

Where did Calis have him going?

This morning he had Hobgood going 11th, but changed to BAL during the day. He's been dead-on so far.

[Reuben]

Braves take college LHP MIke Minor
Reds take Arizona State RHP Leake
Tigers take HS RHP Turner

[moriartp]

Interesting. The Rockies decide to gamble on Matzek.

[MusicMan]

Wow... the ROYALS take Crow??

[hostros7]

What kind of bonus is he looking for?

[MusicMan]

Hard to tell, but keep in mind he chose to play indy ball rather than sign w/ the Nats.  Royals may be counting on a hometown discount.

[moriartp]

Hard to tell, but keep in mind he chose to play indy ball rather than sign w/ the Nats.  Royals may be counting on a hometown discount.

With the bonuses they've been handing out recently, I'm not at all surprised to see them decide to spend big once again.

[matadorph]

Fuckin Rangers.

[juliogotay]

Hard to tell, but keep in mind he chose to play indy ball rather than sign w/ the Nats.  Royals may be counting on a hometown discount.

Remeber they took Hochevar a couple of years ago after he sat out a year.

[MusicMan]

Good point.

And ditto the FTRangers sentiment.  Shoulda known the Old Man wouldn't let Purke slide.

[cc]

Not after breakfast Sunday morning on the veranda with Nolie.

[Noe]

Hard to tell, but keep in mind he chose to play indy ball rather than sign w/ the Nats.  Royals may be counting on a hometown discount.

Crow basically has to choose to play baseball for a major league team or be lost forever in the Indie League.  He's 23 years old so he's behind many other guys now in the minors.

[Noe]

Good point.

And ditto the FTRangers sentiment.  Shoulda known the Old Man wouldn't let Purke slide.

Sounds like the MLB guys took a shot at the Smoak pick last year and how this year, Nolan won't let a pitcher slip out of their hands.

[Noe]

Lots of High Schoolers going early.  The drop between the elite high draft picks and the talented second tier kids must of been huge.

[hostros7]

Crow basically has to choose to play baseball for a major league team or be lost forever in the Indie League.  He's 23 years old so he's behind many other guys now in the minors.

Choosing the independent league over (at least) #9 slot money and having major league franchise instruction blows my mind.  It doesn't even seem like the risk/reward would be worth it.  You weren't going to convince anyone you were strasburg in a year.  Kid must have had some bad confidants.

[Reuben]

The Rangers were also thought to be going for Shelby Miller; are the Astros looking at him now perhaps?

[hostros7]

Did Bud just say from Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Indiana?  He is horrible at this whole "reading off a notecard" thing.

[cougar]

I guess I can respect MLB trying to make the draft more TV friendly like the NFL and NBA, but something just seems...different.  Maybe I'm just not used to all the hoopla and rigamoral.

[MusicMan]

I guess I can respect MLB trying to make the draft more TV friendly like the NFL and NBA, but something just seems...different.  Maybe I'm just not used to all the hoopla and rigamoral.

Perhaps they should have spent more than $20 on the set.

[hostros7]

Seriously, it's like Let's Make a Deal-on-Baseketball.

[Noe]

The Rangers were also thought to be going for Shelby Miller; are the Astros looking at him now perhaps?

Astros aren't tipping their hand other than to say that they won't spend a high pick on a catcher.  So I suspect they'll go for a really good outfielder with a good bat.  Just my hunch.

[cougar]

Perhaps they should have spent more than $20 on the set.

There is that.  Maybe it's also because I've never heard of 95% of these kids, so I'm still kinda detached from the whole thing.

[Noe]

Chad James... the Astros were looking at this kid.

[Bench]

Lots of High Schoolers going early.  The drop between the elite high draft picks and the talented second tier kids must of been huge.

The pundits today were saying this is one of the weaker overall drafts in a while, but who really knows about that? 

[OregonStrosFan]

Choosing the independent league over (at least) #9 slot money and having major league franchise instruction blows my mind.  It doesn't even seem like the risk/reward would be worth it.  You weren't going to convince anyone you were strasburg in a year.  Kid must have had some bad confidants.

Think the take on it was that both sides misplayed their hands on that one and ended up running out of time with last second shenanigans. 

[matadorph]

Rex Brothers, perhaps?

[moriartp]

Fuck the Jakes.

[OregonStrosFan]

Go to college Miller.  You don't wanna have to be a Co-ard...

Who are the pundits top guys still left on the board?

[Noe]

Co-ards invading Tejas.  Darnit!

[Bench]

Fuck the Jakes.

It's a nice reminder that the Astros finished ahead of them last year.  The highlight of the draft so far.

[cougar]

The St. Louis Card-eh-nals take Miller from Brownwood.  I was more interested in Bud's overly enunciated version of "Cardinals".

[matadorph]

Astros OTC

[Leeaire]

here we go 

[Reuben]

So, maybe Brothers, or a bat? Isn't Brothers looked at as a reliver though?

[cougar]

Astros OTC

That means they cut to commercial.  It happens with every Houston team on draft day.

[Cheo]

Rex Brothers???

[Bench]

That means they cut to commercial.  It happens with every Houston team on draft day.

Now THAT'S drinkability.

[Leeaire]

That means they cut to commercial.  It happens with every Houston team on draft day.

and they did, how lovely.

[jaklewein]

That means they cut to commercial.  It happens with every Houston team on draft day.

better now rather than after the pick...that would've been worse....course they'll probably talk about the Strasburg instead of Houston's.  Just how it goes.

[cougar]

My breath is bated and I am waiting.  Here we go.

It's pronounced BIDGEEO you moron!

[matadorph]

Callis!

[cougar]

A high school shortstop who "wasn't high on the boards".  Hmmm.

[hostros7]

BA projected the stros taking him.  He also can pitch.

[Bench]

Jiovanni! Are you kidding me?!?! What a horrible pick. 

/uninformed whining.

So, who is this kid?

[Twoniner]

  Officially back to pitching and defense.

[OregonStrosFan]

MLB Enhanced Scouting Report and video.

[matadorph]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGFpB2JQpg8

[Noe]

  Officially back to pitching and defense.

Ab-so-freaking-lutely!

[cougar]

Well, MLB.com's final mock called him the "best pure shortstop" so I'm not going to whine about it.

[Noe]

From Footer's twitter report:

Applause erupts as soon as Toronto made its pick, just behind Houston. Happiness in Draft room.

[Reuben]

cool. Sounds like a good pick. I like the descriptions of his "quiet confidence."

[moriartp]

From Footer's twitter report:

Applause erupts as soon as Toronto made its pick, just behind Houston. Happiness in Draft room.

That's what's made me happiest. I trust Heck and his team--if they were that elated, I am too.

[drew corleone]

Scouting report looks promising... hopefully this kid pans out.

[Reuben]

funny quotes from John Manuel at BA, on successive posts:
"The Astros and Twins will be fascinating to watch, tough teams to peg."

then after the Astros pick Mier:
"Mier is an up-the-middle player, one of the best defenders in the draft, and a pick that was rumored this morning, much (I’m sure) to Bobby Heck’s chagrin. Neither Heck nor Jack Zduriencik could keep their secrets this year, somehow word still leaked out." ...huh?

[juliogotay]

cool. Sounds like a good pick. I like the descriptions of his "quiet confidence."

and "off the charts makeup" which plays very high with Heck and Co. I remember they said that about Castro and Seaton.

[OregonStrosFan]

Neither here nor there... From PG Crosscheckers live blog: LINK

David Rawnsley:  MLB.com gave the opinion earlier that Grant Green was the best fielding shortstop in the draft.....I would respectfully disagree.   Mier will be a better defensive shortstop when they reach the big leagues.   He plays with an athletic balance that makes fielding look easy.

David Rawnsley:  Mier belongs on the very select group of top baseball prospects who were also soccer stars.....Nomar and Michael  Garciaparra, Brad Wilkerson and Jeff Bagwell being on that very short list to my knowledge.

[matadorph]

More scouting video

[At Ease]

Sounds like a good pick.

[Noe]

Neither here nor there... From PG Crosscheckers live blog: LINK

David Rawnsley:  MLB.com gave the opinion earlier that Grant Green was the best fielding shortstop in the draft.....I would respectfully disagree.   Mier will be a better defensive shortstop when they reach the big leagues.   He plays with an athletic balance that makes fielding look easy.

David Rawnsley:  Mier belongs on the very select group of top baseball prospects who were also soccer stars.....Nomar and Michael  Garciaparra, Brad Wilkerson and Jeff Bagwell being on that very short list to my knowledge.

Actually, it provides a good frame of reference.  You absolutely want to see a guy with great footwork at short and playing futbol gives you that.  If he's very good at positioning, then this kid is a keeper.

[kevwun]

funny quotes from John Manuel at BA, on successive posts:
"The Astros and Twins will be fascinating to watch, tough teams to peg."

then after the Astros pick Mier:
"Mier is an up-the-middle player, one of the best defenders in the draft, and a pick that was rumored this morning, much (I’m sure) to Bobby Heck’s chagrin. Neither Heck nor Jack Zduriencik could keep their secrets this year, somehow word still leaked out." ...huh?

Some guy on the UT rivals site called this pick this morning.  Apparently, word did leak out.

[OregonStrosFan]

I just noted the second part for the Baggs ref.  Didn't realize it may actually be pertinent...

[Reuben]

Actually, it provides a good frame of reference.  You absolutely want to see a guy with great footwork at short and playing futbol gives you that.  If he's very good at positioning, then this kid is a keeper.

That's what the reports say, not great speed but he makes up for it with excellent positioning and instincts, etc.

[cougar]

Lamar Cons?  What, does Bud think they're drafting from prisons or reform schools now?

[Reuben]

Some guy on the UT rivals site called this pick this morning.  Apparently, word did leak out.

just funny to me that he had just typed that the Astros are a tough team to peg.

[Mike S.]

and "off the charts makeup" which plays very high with Heck and Co. I remember they said that about Castro and Seaton.

Heck knows far more about this sort of thing than I ever will, but I'm still surprised that the Astros chose Mier rather than Gibson.  Thought that the latter was widely considered the better of the two players.

[Noe]

That's what the reports say, not great speed but he makes up for it with excellent positioning and instincts, etc.

Eggszactly.  My nephew is a shortstop in college and is also a very good futbol player (could have gone to college to play soccer had he wanted to.. he chose baseball).  Futbol helped his footwork tremendously and Michael (my nephew) is similar to Jiovanni in that it's not about range, it's about proper positioning all the time.

[moriartp]

Both Law and Callis had Mier as the pick as of this Morning. As for not taking Gibson, the factor there was the stress fracture in his right forearm.

[Noe]

From Footer:

Heck: "He's a true shortstop. He stays at shortstop. He has tremendous defensive ability and offensive ability and he'll grow into

On signability: "He wants to play. He made it known to us. He was at the workout (at MMP) last Friday." Mier had committed to USC.

asked what impressed him the most about Mier: "Confidence. Presence. Poise."

Heck just called Mier, who is graduating from high school tonight: "Enjoy the night, but you better keep your phone charged, buddy."

[cc]

Yeah, I agree with those of you who want to give Bobby Heck the benefit of the doubt.  He does know a little bit about this talent evaluation stuff.  From the video, he looks like he makes the throw to first with ease, but I'm no scout.

[Mike S.]

Both Law and Callis had Mier as the pick as of this Morning. As for not taking Gibson, the factor there was the stress fracture in his right forearm.

If Heck had Mier ahead of Gibson on their draft board, then fair enough.  But, as I said, what I've read indicated that Gibson was considered the better prospect and the stress fracture is only supposed to keep on the shelf for six weeks (per Jacksonian's comment earlier today).  Again, though, I'll defer to Heck's judgment. 

[Reuben]

Noe, where are you seeing the Footer updates? I don't see those quotes on her blog...

[Navin R Johnson]

She is on Twitter

[jaklewein]

Thank goodness for SnS.  In my pre OWA/SnS days I'd of been scratching my head about this pick.  Now I get it on so many different levels.  Sure does feel good.

[moriartp]

And with the Rays' pick... heeeeee shaaaaalll beeeeee Leeeeeeeevonnnnn...

[Reuben]

She is on Twitter

Ah. Well, us non-twitterers would appreciate any relevant blurbs passed along, gracias.

[Jacksonian]

Wish I'd have been here earlier.  In the first 5 picks I kept thinking the Astros would go HS pitcher or middle infielder.  Premium positions.  I wonder if Duman will have him in Greeneville?  Or if he'll get the new GCL team off and running?

Solid pick.

The thing with Gibson now is that now that he's had the arm injury there will be questions as to whether it will reoccur.

Of course the big question now is what BP thinks.  Musicman?

[Jacksonian]

Second round pick I'm guessing college pitcher.

[moriartp]

BP's Goldstein on the pick: "Jio Mier has tools for sure, but I was expecting an outfielder. Still, it's an up the middle player who is going to not only stay at shortstop, but play well there. I just worry that he hits 7th for you."

[Russe]

Lovin' the Mier pick. I would have been okay with Brothers, but Mier is the guy I've wanted them to go for since I read about him.

[OregonStrosFan]

Ah. Well, us non-twitterers would appreciate any relevant blurbs passed along, gracias.

Dont have to have an account to follow.  Check it out HERE.  No updates lately though.

[Reuben]

Second round pick I'm guessing college pitcher.

I've seen basically zero info about guys projected to go after the first round. The Astros' next pick isn't until #69, so by then it'll probably all be guys most of us haven't heard of.

[moriartp]

The only thing that gives me pause about this pick is that nobody's ripped it yet. I don't know if I'm comfortable with a selection the "experts" are okay with. At the very least, it's uncharted territory.

[Mike S.]

Second round pick I'm guessing college pitcher.

Hmmm, maybe Mike Minor from Vandy?  At one point, he was considered the top college lefty in the draft. 

[moriartp]

He went to the Braves 7th overall.

[MusicMan]

minor went top 10.

JA - I am avoiding BP draft coverage - learned my lesson last yr

[matadorph]

Woody Williams just announced the Padres pick: McCallum OF Everett Williams.

[Noe]

Richard Justics Tweet:

Bobby Heck on Jiovanni Mier:''We thought he was the best baseball player in the draft. He has a presence. He looks like a major league SS."

[Jacksonian]

The only thing that gives me pause about this pick is that nobody's ripped it yet. I don't know if I'm comfortable with a selection the "experts" are okay with. At the very least, it's uncharted territory.

There were a number of guys who looked like mid- to late-first rounders, and he was one of them.  From the pudnits view the Astros didn't reach.

[Jacksonian]

Has Schepper's gone yet?

[juliogotay]

Has Schepper's gone yet?

yes. I can't tell you when or who but they were talking about him.

[OregonStrosFan]

'Stros up.

[Jacksonian]

yes. I can't tell you when or who but they were talking about him.

Got it.  Rangers in supp 1st.

[Noe]

Tanner Bushue (pronounced "Boo-shee") RHP

(http://cougarbaseball.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/bullpen2.jpg)

[matadorph]

yes. I can't tell you when or who but they were talking about him.

44th to Texas

Wtf is up with the draft tracker?

[Reuben]

44th to Texas

Wtf is up with the draft tracker?

The live video feed on mlb.com is now working fine. but yeah, would be nice to see a good up to the minute list.

[matadorph]

Tanner Bushue (pronounced "Boo-shee") RHP

He was one of the guys at MM last week, right?

[moriartp]

Nice find on Bushue, Duman.

[Jacksonian]

I was close.  HS pitcher.

On a different note, SS A-ball (Tri-City) is populated mainly by collegiate draftees.  I fear that team is not going to be all that good if the Astros don't pick up some college players soon.

[matadorph]

Pictures of pre draft work out at MMP of Tanner Bushue

So that's where I heard his name!

[jaklewein]

From Footer:  "and everyone applauds, again. This appears to be a satisfactory pick for the crew."

Sounds like Heck and company are again extremely happy.  Good news.

[Noe]

I was close.  HS pitcher.

On a different note, SS A-ball (Tri-City) is populated mainly by collegiate draftees.  I fear that team is not going to be all that good if the Astros don't pick up some college players soon.

Mayo just remarked how he likes what the Astros are doing, namely not falling for college players just for the sake of taking a bunch of some what advanced players.  In Mayo's opinion, you take the better player, not just the player who is in college.  Nice observation.  Speaks to Heck's pronouncement that BOA was the focus of the team.

[At Ease]

Bushue has a more projectable frame, velocity in the 88-90 range.

[Noe]

Got it.  Rangers in supp 1st.

Rangers taking two left handed pitchers.  Think Nolan is up to something here?

[Russe]

Scheppers is a righty.

[Noe]

Scheppers is a righty.

Thanks, must of been thinking about someone else.  Still, the Rangers taking pitching over more bats?  You know, they just may get it finally up north of us.

[juliogotay]

Rangers taking two left handed pitchers.  Think Nolan is up to something here?

Damn straight.

[OregonStrosFan]

Bushue VIDEO and a brief April Artcle on him from PGCrosschecker

[juliogotay]

Thanks, must of been thinking about someone else.  Still, the Rangers taking pitching over more bats?  You know, they just may get it finally up north of us.

They've been getting it for awhile. They're loaded with live arms.

[Jacksonian]

Mayo just remarked how he likes what the Astros are doing, namely not falling for college players just for the sake of taking a bunch of some what advanced players.  In Mayo's opinion, you take the better player, not just the player who is in college.  Nice observation.  Speaks to Heck's pronouncement that BOA was the focus of the team.

Oh, I know how it goes and am happy with the draft so far.  It's just that last year the pitchers at Tri-City weren't all that and the team wasn't either.  I'd like to have my cake and eat it too.  I'm hoping for some advanced Dominicans and Venezuelans to step up and get it done.

[Reuben]

I might go see Tri-City in early July when they're here playing the Brooklyn Cyclones. Aren't there some guys currently in EST (and maybe were in Greeneville last year) that would be on the team?

[Jacksonian]

I might go see Tri-City in early July when they're here playing the Brooklyn Cyclones. Aren't there some guys currently in EST (and maybe were in Greeneville last year) that would be on the team?

The best of them last year are in Lex now.  There may be some but I'm too tired to remember and not in a position until tomorrow to look it up.

[matadorph]

Another lefty arm for the Rangers. Robert Erlin, HSer from California.

[OregonStrosFan]

Any Seaton types still out there that y'all can recall (i.e. 1st round/sandwich talent deemed difficult to sign/ unsingable) still hanging around in the 3rd round?

[astrosfan76]

Not sure if there are signability issues, but RHP Brody Colvin out of Lafayette is a guy still out there who could be a value at this point.

[matadorph]

Telvin Nash, OF from Georgia

[Jacksonian]

Any Seaton types still out there that y'all can recall (i.e. 1st round/sandwich talent deemed difficult to sign/ unsingable) still hanging around in the 3rd round?

Mayo says Max Stassi.

[Jacksonian]

Telvin Nash, OF from Georgia

Corner outfielder.  They must see real power potential there.

[moriartp]

Article on Nash

[matadorph]

How long does the draft go tonight?

[moriartp]

Ends at our 3S pick at #111.

[MikeyBoy]

BP's Goldstein on the pick: "Jio Mier has tools for sure, but I was expecting an outfielder. Still, it's an up the middle player who is going to not only stay at shortstop, but play well there. I just worry that he hits 7th for you."

Uh, someone has to hit 7th?

[billemite]

Article on Nash

“I had a blast at the Astros tryout. I got to meet with all the team officials and the players,” Nash said. “We had batting practice and I played the positions of left field and third base. They wanted to see how soft my hands were and how well I could move my feet.”

Maybe they see him as having potential at 3rd.

[matadorph]

Or Jonathan Meyer.

[Jacksonian]

“I had a blast at the Astros tryout. I got to meet with all the team officials and the players,” Nash said. “We had batting practice and I played the positions of left field and third base. They wanted to see how soft my hands were and how well I could move my feet.”

Maybe they see him as having potential at 3rd.

And then they pick a high school 3B.

I believe the Astros listed Nash as LF.

[moriartp]

Very interesting. With 4 picks, they go the high school route every time and take three position players. I look forward to hearing what Heck has to say about day one.

[jaklewein]

What allowed them to get the 3rd round "comp" pick?

[Leeaire]

What allowed them to get the 3rd round "comp" pick?

Davidson didn't sign with them in the 3rd last draft.

[Reuben]

Nash was a teammate of last year's #1 overall, Tim Beckham. Found this article from a while back where Nash says

Nash says Beckham also gave him several tips about how to catch a scout's attention: hitting the opposite way, concentrating on fielding proficiency and showing confidence in your ability.

"You learn to have that mentality that you can play with the best guys out there," Nash says. "And because Tim's bringing in 30 or 40 people a game, you get noticed for all of the good things you do."

[OregonStrosFan]

MLB.com scouting report on Meyer

Strengths:   Great makeup and work ethic, excellent instincts. Quick bat with some power. Plus arm strength that plays well in the infield or behind the plate.

Weaknesses:   Doesn't profile as a shortstop, and while versatility is good, he doesn't have a pure position.

Summary:   Meyer is a versatile high schooler who plays shortstop and catches while also closing for his team. In the future, he's likely a third baseman or a catcher, which is just fine with him. With a great makeup and work ethic, he's learned how to switch-hit in his senior season to increase his versatility. With a plus arm and good hands, to go along with some good raw power, a team might be interested in seeing what he can do behind the plate. And everyone knows how well catchers can be drafted. Even if he's an infielder, his combination of skills and attitude should be attractive to many teams.

[jaklewein]

Davidson didn't sign with them in the 3rd last draft.

That's right.  Thanks.

[Reuben]

Thanks for the link, OSF. Anybody know how to expand those teeny video screens on the mlb.com draft reports?

[chandler44]

What's sad is there really are some morons on Footer's Facebook whining about the picks and saying they're 'done' with the Astros.

Good riddance, I say.  Friggin' morons who think they know more about these draftees (and potential draftees) than Heck & company.  That's some kinda arrogance there.

[OregonStrosFan]

Thanks for the link, OSF. Anybody know how to expand those teeny video screens on the mlb.com draft reports?

Not a clue.  They're annoying...  And you're welcome.

[Noe]

Thanks for the link, OSF. Anybody know how to expand those teeny video screens on the mlb.com draft reports?

Go here (Jonathan Meyer) and click on the screen icon on the bottom right hand corner of the player

[Reuben]

Go here (Jonathan Meyer) and click on the screen icon on the bottom right hand corner of the player

Thanks.  Also, Jim Callis on the mlb.com coverage mentioned that Meyer was a Cal State Fullerton recruit, and that they always go for great "makeup" guys (paraphrasing here).

[Noe]

More videos:

First selection: Jiovanni Mier video

Houston selects Jiovanni Mier draft day video

Second selection:Tanner Bushue video

[Noe]

Thanks.  Also, Jim Callis on the mlb.com coverage mentioned that Meyer was a Cal State Fullerton recruit, and that they always go for great "makeup" guys (paraphrasing here).

Telvin Nash looks like a makeup guy as well.  Very athletic looking outfielder who plays two sports: baseball and football.  Might be the steal of the draft this year, only time will tell. 

[Mike S.]

He went to the Braves 7th overall.

Thanks for that.  Had FAR too many problems with mlb.com's site trying to follow the draft.

[Jacksonian]

Telvin Nash looks like a makeup guy as well.  Very athletic looking outfielder who plays two sports: baseball and football.  Might be the steal of the draft this year, only time will tell. 

And.......now he'll washout in 2 years.

Thanks, Noe.

Noe, why does Noe always tempt fate knowing full well his influence?

[Noe]

And.......now he'll washout in 2 years.

Thanks, Noe.

Noe, why does Noe always tempt fate knowing full well his influence?

What if I say "He's the next Charlton Jimerson!"... think the BBGs will forgive me?  I hope so!

[OregonStrosFan]

Heck on Mier: we thought he was the best player in the draft.  Pure shortstop, can field and hit and we think he will grow in to some power.

Quote of the night (wish I could get the words exactly as it was a money quote, but presume Footer et al will have it):

Q: How do you know he'll hit for power?

Heck: (something along the lines of) I'll stand on my record for being able to judge power.  Trust me on that.  Plus defender that will hit and grow into power.

[Jacksonian]

Heck on Mier: we thought he was the best player in the draft.  Pure shortstop, can field and hit and we think he will grow in to some power.

Quote of the night (wish I could get the words exactly as it was a money quote, but presume Footer et al will have it):

Q: How do you know he'll hit for power?

Heck: (something along the lines of) I'll stand on my record for being able to judge power.  Trust me on that.  Plus defender that will hit and grow into power.

mlb.com comps him often as a young Nosemar.

[OregonStrosFan]

Thanks for that.  Had FAR too many problems with mlb.com's site trying to follow the draft.

Absolutely hated MLBs efforts this year.  Draft trackers were behind (to very behind) all night.  Having to listen to Selig drone on in the 1st round stunk (especially with Biggio and the like waiting in the wings - would've been much more entertaining having them come up to the podium for each pick).  Couldn't search for undrafted players once they began posting the tracker.  And then Footers blog went down (I'm blaming MLB on that one too, probably not their fault but I don't care...).

[OregonStrosFan]

mlb.com comps him often as a young Nosemar.

Why, is he injury prone and dating a soccer player as well?

[Noe]

Interview with Jiovanni Mier on Baseball Beginnings, and their scouting report on him.




ETA: decided to fix it here too, since I could.

[Jacksonian]

Interview with Jiovanni Mier on Baseball Beginnings

FIFY

[OregonStrosFan]

Interview with Jiovanni Mier on Baseball Beginnings 

Great find Noe.

Baseball Beginnings: Do you feel like you have to slow your bat down in high school games?
Mier: I feel like I have to slow everything down.

Baseball Beginnings: What are your priorities at the next level?
Mier: Consistency with my bat. I have minor flaws I keep coming back to. Just stupid mistakes I fall back into. I got a hanging curveball today. Instead of keeping it closed and letting my bat fly, I got pull happy and tapped it. I come back into the dugout and ask myself, ‘What am I doing there?’ It’s all about being consistent with myself.

[Noe]

Great find Noe.

Baseball Beginnings: Do you feel like you have to slow your bat down in high school games?
Mier: I feel like I have to slow everything down.

Baseball Beginnings: What are your priorities at the next level?
Mier: Consistency with my bat. I have minor flaws I keep coming back to. Just stupid mistakes I fall back into. I got a hanging curveball today. Instead of keeping it closed and letting my bat fly, I got pull happy and tapped it. I come back into the dugout and ask myself, ‘What am I doing there?’ It’s all about being consistent with myself.

He has his big brother's tutelage which helps because you can hear "approach" coming out of his statements right there.  He also accents what we were talking about earlier and his quick feet coming from futbol (soccer).

[Noe]

Jonathan Meyer Interview at Baseball Beginning, along with a scouting report from the same site (plus scout video)

[Russe]

The only thing that gives me pause about this pick is that nobody's ripped it yet. I don't know if I'm comfortable with a selection the "experts" are okay with. At the very least, it's uncharted territory.

Ask and ye shall receive (via rotoworld.com): "Mier is questionable to last at shortstop, and he probably won't possess the bat to be a major asset anywhere else. He's probably not more than a future 12-homer guy at best, and plate discipline is an issue. He shouldn't have gone in the first round."

Now, I don't like to bust out the "biased against the Astros" card, but I have no other explanation for this. I have read a ton of draft stuff and I have not seen single piece that suggests that a) Mier won't stick at SS, and b) he was not a first-round talent. Whoever wrote this doesn't deserve a job.

[otterjb]

A slick-fielding shortstop with power potential? Ok, sounds good.

[OregonStrosFan]

Ask and ye shall receive (via rotoworld.com): "Mier is questionable to last at shortstop, and he probably won't possess the bat to be a major asset anywhere else. He's probably not more than a future 12-homer guy at best, and plate discipline is an issue. He shouldn't have gone in the first round."

Now, I don't like to bust out the "biased against the Astros" card, but I have no other explanation for this. I have read a ton of draft stuff and I have not seen single piece that suggests that a) Mier won't stick at SS, and b) he was not a first-round talent. Whoever wrote this doesn't deserve a job.

Thanks for this.  Everything I'd read up until now was approaching favorable on the guy and it had me COMPLETELY FREAKED OUT.  Now that I know the 'haters' are being critical of it, I am comforted in the knwledge that the kid actually has a shot...

[Duman]

Older brother of Mier is not getting much playing time in the Cal League due to being injured at the start of the year but had a descent year last year between the Pioneer league & Midwest Leagues.

[hostros7]

I generally only think of rotoworld as opining on the game from a fantasy impact perspective?  Is that not the case?  You don't get points in a rotisserie league for quick feet and slick fielding.

[MikeyBoy]

Some things I've discovered about Purke -- you can take for what it's worth:

1. Asking price is more like $7M.
2. He was in Arlington over the weekend, having breakfast yesterday with Nolan Ryan and then having a private workout for him.  Apparently they are seriously considering ponying up the premium he's alleged to be seeking.
3. He's been looking at Boras as his agent.

Given these considerations, if true, the Astros are likely looking elsewhere.

The Astros never made contact with Matthew, not even once and by all indications had no intentions on drafting him, even if he would have fallen to 21. If the Rangers come close to Purke's asking price, and there are indications that they will, he will sign with them.

[Andyzipp]

Not sure why this little bit of information isn't in the Chronicle or on Astros.com, but take 5 seconds...

http://tinyurl.com/kwcrcr

[Jacksonian]

Not sure why this little bit of information isn't in the Chronicle or on Astros.com, but take 5 seconds...

http://tinyurl.com/kwcrcr

Must learn when NOT to say something.

[roadrunner]

Not sure why this little bit of information isn't in the Chronicle or on Astros.com, but take 5 seconds...

http://tinyurl.com/kwcrcr

here we go....

[MusicMan]

Nice start, rook.  Today, we're gonna work on your cliches.  You're gonna know them, know how to use them...

[Noe]

It's not up to draftees to speak for the unspoken and somewhat already understood premise that Tejada isn't going to be here long (what the scout told him should not have been said either unless it was a tatic to get the kid excited about being drafted and that he would be fast-tracked... keep him away from the USC scene that way).  I'm thinking trading deadline myself as Tejada's last days.  He should learn to say "I dunno, I'm just happy to be here!" type stuff.  Craig Biggio could teach him a lot.

But if anyone is shocked by this revelation by the draftee, then they've been living under a rock.  When Drayton McLane talks about going with younger players, the first person anyone should think about is Miguel Tejada as gonzo.

[Noe]

Nice start, rook.  Today, we're gonna work on your cliches.  You're gonna know them, know how to use them...

"Yeah, we're just happy to be here.  Can't wait to get started." - Craig Biggio

[Duman]

Rook just needs to make sure his mouth isn't writing checks his talent can't cash.  There are several ss in the minor leagues who'll take exception to a 1st rounder who comes in shooting off his mouth.  Manzella, Maysonette & Sutil are those he would have to pass along the way.  He isn't the answer for Tejada.  Those three I mentioned may not be either depending on trades & FA signings but he needs to realize he is on the bottom rung and needs to be very careful about peeing up the ladder.  Gravity can be a mean law to break.

[Noe]

There is a fine line between cocky and confident.  Confident usually comes with humility because you don't need to brag, you just do it.  Cocky is bragging before, while and after you do it.  So you want guys who let their work speak for them.  That is why (warning, mixed sports metaphor here) guys like Kobe Bryant, while great, rub me entirely the wrong way.  When he retires from the game, he'll wonder why all the players he competed against don't call him or visit.  You need to know how to compete in sports, tip your cap when necessary, but by all means do your best and win.

[Navin R Johnson]

Not sure why this little bit of information isn't in the Chronicle or on Astros.com, but take 5 seconds...

http://tinyurl.com/kwcrcr

speaking of 1560.   the folks there don't seem real happy with the draft so far.

http://tinyurl.com/mgdy59

[Jacksonian]

speaking of 1560.   the folks there don't seem real happy with the draft so far.

http://tinyurl.com/mgdy59

Stupid.

[Astroholic]

Stupid.

To me those guys know far more about football than baseball, so I agree Stupid.  Trust the scouts!

[Andyzipp]

Stupid.

That is a forum for listeners...not necessarily representative of thier employees.

[Jacksonian]

To me those guys know far more about football than baseball, so I agree Stupid.  Trust the scouts!

Beyond that.  Last year Jordan Lyles wasn't on any of the pudnits' radar.  He was supposedly an overdraft then.  He's held his own and then some in full season low-A ball, AS AN 18 YEAR OLD.  These HS kids have so much developing to do there's no way to know if Mier will pan out and if so how well right now.  Stupid to make any judgements.  Beyond what you see today.

[Jacksonian]

That is a forum for listeners...not necessarily representative of thier employees.

I know that.  I didn't see Nuno or Raheel in there.  Those listeners are stupid.  Headhunting those listeners might be fun.

[Jared Novak]

4th round pick is: B.J. Hyatt,  RHP, University of South Carolina Sumter

[domedogs]

4th Round: BJ Hyatt RHP U South Carolina-Sumter  6' 4" 205lbs

anyone have any scouting videos or scouting reports on this guy?

[Jared Novak]

5th round pick: Brandon Wikoff, SS University of Illinois - Champaign

[Mike S.]

What if I say "He's the next Charlton Jimerson!"... think the BBGs will forgive me?  I hope so!

Michael Rosamond works equally well.

[Reuben]

wow, moving a lot quicker today. The Tri-City team begins to emerge.

[Jared Novak]

Damnit, Matt Graham just got taken by the Giants.

Was hoping the Astros would pick him up.

[pots]

Another SS:
6th round: R/R Enrique Henrandez

[Jared Novak]

6th round pick: Enrique Hernandez, SS, American Military Academy, Puerto Rico

[Reuben]

The Rangers just picked an outfielder named Ruben Sierra. Hmmmm....

[JimR]

Michael Rosamond works equally well.

that is a name i never wanted to hear again.

[S.P. Rodriguez]

that is a name i never wanted to hear again.

If there's a story, I sure hope you plan to share it...

[pots]

Round 7: First Lefty Pitcher - Dallas Keuchel - U. Arkansas Fayetville dob: 1/1/1988

[Jared Novak]

7th Round: LHP Dallas Keuchel, University of Arkansas

[matadorph]

The Rangers just picked an outfielder named Ruben Sierra. Hmmmm....

He's from Puerto Rico, so it's probably his son.

[JimR]

If there's a story, I sure hope you plan to share it...

watching him play at Dell Diamond for however long he was there.

[cc]

Stupid.

"Yeah, thanks for taking my call.  Why aren't the Astros taking guys that anyone else has heard of?  I don't see any players from the Big 12, PAC 10 or SEC on their list.  What about those top high school players that Baseball Prospectus had rated so high?  And couldn't they have packaged some of their low-level minor league prospects and traded up to a top 10 slot?  I don't think they have a clue what they're doing.  They're just trying to save money by getting guys who will sign for cheap and keep Drayton happy.  I played a little high school ball, you know, JV, and I'm not impressed with any of the videos I've seen.  When's the trade deadline, and I'll hang up and listen."

[Jared Novak]

8th Round: RHP Brandt Walker, Stanford

[At Ease]

Walker was a great prospect out of HS, but went to Stanford, where he never really put things together.

Big arm, hopefully time in the system will get him straightened out.

[matadorph]

Ninth round selection -- Ben Orloff, SS from Cal-Irvine.

[Jared Novak]

9th Round Pick: Ben Orloff, SS, Cal-Irvine

Lots of infielders this draft.

[Reuben]

googling Hyatt got me to a blog called astroscounty. Anyone know anything about it? They are posting some decent info about all these picks. They note that Hyatt has had TJ surgery.

[Russe]

Taking a quick glance at Orloff's stats, he reminds me a bit of J.B. Shuck: High BA, Good OBP, more walks than k's, not much pop.

[pots]

hmm, 4 SS and 2 3b in the first 11 picks.  Interesting. 

[OregonStrosFan]

Misc from Footer (via Twitter):

Six of first eight picks were at last week's workout at MMP: Mier, Nash, Hyatt, Bushue, Walker, Hernandez.

Astros select Brandt Walker, a RHP from Stanford U., as their 8th-round pick. Former battery mate of last year's 1st-rounder, Jason Castro.

[OregonStrosFan]

From Footer on Twitter: Astros select Erik Castro, a third baseman from San Diego State U. as their 10th pick. No relation to Jason Castro.

[Noe]

hmm, 4 SS and 2 3b in the first 11 picks.  Interesting. 

Most shortstops turn in to second basemen.  That is why the scouts saying that Meir is going to *stay* a shortstop is a good thing.  For a frame of reference, Gerry Hunsicker wanted to know from his scouts if Chris Burke was going to remain a shortstop.  He was told definitely, so they used a 10th pick on Burke.  When Burke came in and people saw him play short, it was pretty apparent he was going to have to move to second base or outfielder.

Hunsicker was very angry at his scouts on that one.  So any way, these short stops they're drafting aren't necessarily major league shortstops to be.  Most will become something else if they make the bigs.

[OregonStrosFan]

Rd 11, pk. 341: David Williams 6'0", 190 lbs.
C - (J2) Crowder College

[Noe]

I know that.  I didn't see Nuno or Raheel in there.  Those listeners are stupid.  Headhunting those listeners might be fun.

They went headhunting on JdJO instead!

listen here...  Granato pulls no punches.

[pots]

Most shortstops turn in to second basemen.  That is why the scouts saying that Meir is going to *stay* a shortstop is a good thing.  For a frame of reference, Gerry Hunsicker wanted to know from his scouts if Chris Burke was going to remain a shortstop.  He was told definitely, so they used a 10th pick on Burke.  When Burke came in and people saw him play short, it was pretty apparent he was going to have to move to second base or outfielder.

Hunsicker was very angry at his scouts on that one.  So any way, these short stops they're drafting aren't necessarily major league shortstops to be.  Most will become something else if they make the bigs.

Yeah, was aware that some would end up at second.  The best infielder usually plays shortstop, colleges and high school have weaker pools of talent.  Still interesting the influx of infielders in the first 10 rounds.  Could be best available and just a fluke.

[OregonStrosFan]

Rd. 12, pick 371: Geoffrey Thomas (RHP).  6'00" 187 lbs.  Stephenson High School.  Scouting Video Link

Edited to fix link.

[Reuben]

link didn't work for me...

[matadorph]

They went headhunting on JdJO instead!

listen here...  Granato pulls no punches.

His voice is perfect for newsprint.

[OregonStrosFan]

link didn't work for me...

Thanks for the heads-up.  Fixed it.

[Noe]

Yeah, was aware that some would end up at second.  The best infielder usually plays shortstop, colleges and high school have weaker pools of talent.  Still interesting the influx of infielders in the first 10 rounds.  Could be best available and just a fluke.

Look for the kids that they call "projects to have power, body type will fill out more" to be future 3rd basemen, even if they're shortstops right now.  Look for those kids that they say "has good footwork, quick glove to hand transfer" to be future second basemen.  The tag "athletic" or "great arm" could mean modal enough to be a future outfielder.

I think the BOA is very prevalent in these picks.

[moriartp]

His voice is perfect for newsprint.

Always sounds like he's horribly constipated.

[Bench]

Look for the kids that they call "projects to have power, body type will fill out more" to be future 3rd basemen, even if they're shortstops right now.  Look for those kids that they say "has good footwork, quick glove to hand transfer" to be future second basemen.  The tag "athletic" or "great arm" could mean modal enough to be a future outfielder.

I think the BOA is very prevalent in these picks.

Noe, I know that you are referring to taking the best player availalbe, but what does the "O" stand for?

[Noe]

Noe, I know that you are referring to taking the best player availalbe, but what does the "O" stand for?

Sorry, that should be BPA.  I hit the wrong key typing on the fly (drive by while at my office).

[Navin R Johnson]

Noe, I know that you are referring to taking the best player availalbe, but what does the "O" stand for?

Ha!  I have been trying to figure that out for 3 pages.   Best Other Avail, Best Option Avail...

[OregonStrosFan]

Rd 13, 401: L/L   OF  Jake Goebbert 9.24.87 6'00" 205lbs (JR) Northwestern U  IL

Rd 14, 431: L/L   LHP  David Berner   6.16.87 6'02" 205lbs (SR) San Jose St U  CA

Rd 15, 461: R/R  CF   Ryan Humphrey 9.19.88 6'00" 195lbs (J2) St. Louis CC Meramec AR

Rd 16, 491: L/R  1B   Ronald Sanchez 8.09.91 5'10"   --  (HS) Manuela  Toro HS  PR  MLB Scouting Video

Video shows Sanchez behind the dish, Astros asked for him to be listed at 1B

[Reuben]

Rd. 12, pick 371: Geoffrey Thomas (RHP).  6'00" 187 lbs.  Stephenson High School.  Scouting Video Link

Edited to fix link.

Thanks. The soundtrack on these things is awesome.

[OregonStrosFan]

Rd 17, 521: R/R  RHP  Justin Harper         6.10.88  6'03"-210lbs (JR) Oklahoma City U  AZ (MLB.com Scouting Video

Rd 18, 551: L/R  RHP  James Macdonald   4.15.87  6'02"-210lbs (SR)  Boston Col MA

[Andyzipp]

They went headhunting on JdJO instead!

listen here...  Granato pulls no punches.

JdJO has no idea what he's looking at when it comes to potential changes with the Astros.  Or he wasn't paying attention/at the media call.  And he's never sat on a piece of information in his life.

And he wasn't lying when he said he was desperate for attention.

[Noe]

The theme, if there really is such a thing, of this year's draft (from my perspective, the Bus Ride boys will know better than I) seems to be this:

1. Take best players available, target a crucial infield need first, namely shortstop
2. Take the best players available that are young and modal enough to learn new positions
3. Take high schoolers because the talent is one you can really mold early and often
4. After you've accomplished the top three, look for pitching
5. After you accomplish #4, take players that are potentially good players at their position, you may find a steal at the tail end of the draft (not necessarily a player that can be molded, but one that may improve if taught how to play their position better and hit better)

[Reuben]

Rd 17, 521: R/R  RHP  Justin Harper         6.10.88  6'03"-210lbs (JR) Oklahoma City U  AZ (MLB.com Scouting Video

Rd 18, 551: L/R  RHP  James Macdonald   4.15.87  6'02"-210lbs (SR)  Boston Col MA

Harper has a Pedro-style push-leg-whip.

[OregonStrosFan]

Rd 19, 581: R/R  CF   Brian Kemp     09.02.88  5'09"-180lbs (JR) St John U  NY  (MLB Scouting Video)

Rd 20, 611: R/R  RF   Julio Martinez  8.21.87  6'03"-194lbs (JR) Nova Southeastern U  MLB Scouting Video

Referred to Martinez as a "redraft".  There have been a number of those by teams today.  I presume that meant they were drafted by another team previously but didn't sign, but don't know.  Anyone?

[OregonStrosFan]

Harper has a Pedro-style push-leg-whip.

Just been linking, hadn't been looking.  10 minute break now before the 21st round so should have a chance to check them out...

[Jacksonian]

Rd 19, 581: R/R  CF   Brian Kemp     09.02.88  5'09"-180lbs (JR) St John U  NY  (MLB Scouting Video)

Rd 20, 611: R/R  RF   Julio Martinez  8.21.87  6'03"-194lbs (JR) Nova Southeastern U  MLB Scouting Video

Referred to Martinez as a "redraft".  There have been a number of those by teams today.  I presume that meant they were drafted by another team previously but didn't sign, but don't know.  Anyone?

Correct.

[Jacksonian]

The theme, if there really is such a thing, of this year's draft (from my perspective, the Bus Ride boys will know better than I) seems to be this:

1. Take best players available, target a crucial infield need first, namely shortstop
2. Take the best players available that are young and modal enough to learn new positions
3. Take high schoolers because the talent is one you can really mold early and often
4. After you've accomplished the top three, look for pitching
5. After you accomplish #4, take players that are potentially good players at their position, you may find a steal at the tail end of the draft (not necessarily a player that can be molded, but one that may improve if taught how to play their position better and hit better)

Additionally, with the change in affiliates I'm all messed up.  The GCL team adds another team that draftees can go to.  Add in the guys in EST and the foreign born players ready for the US.  This year is a bit of a learning one for me in regards to what they are looking for throughout the draft.

[OregonStrosFan]

Rd 21, 641: L/R  2B     Barry Butera     6.5.87    6'00"-180lbs  (JR) Boston Col  ME

Rd 22, 671: R/R  RHP   Mark Jones      8.29.90   6'07"-205lbs  (HS) Manheim Township HS   PA

Rd 23, 701: R/R  RHP  Robert Donovan 4.24.88  6'05"-220lbs (JR) Stetson U  FL  (MLB Scouting Video

[Hornstros]

drafting bigger, athletic guys seems to be a theme that carried over into this year.   Only a few of the guys drafted have been under 6 feet tall and most of those have been middle infielders

[OregonStrosFan]

Heck interview (video) with Footer after day 1 of the draft (Footers blog link: Can't link the video but it is available at the top right corner of the page)

Heck Q&A with JdJO (LINK)

[OregonStrosFan]

Day 2 wraps up for the Astros with their 30th round pick.

Rd 24, 731:  L/L  LHP  Mike Modica  12.16.86 6'00"-175lbs (SR) George Mason U NJ

Rd 25, 761:  L/R  1B   Nicholas Stanley 5.12.87 6'02"-195lbs (SR) Florida State College FL

Rd 26, 791:  L/R  1B   Matthew Watson  11.17.90 6'00"-200lbs (HS) Pompano Beach HS  ME

Rd 27, 821: L/R   3B   Aaron Bray 07.04.87  6'00"-180lbs (SR) UNC Charlotte  NC

Rd 28, 851: R/R  RHP  Eric Anderson  10.19.90  6'4" --- (HS) Mountain Vista HS  CO

Rd 29, 881: R/R  CF   Garen Wright  12.25.90  6'3"-230lbs (HS) Putnam City HS  OK

Rd 30, 911:  R/R  RHP  Brandon Petite 12.05.90  6'3"-210lbs  Vauhall HS  (MLB Scouting Video

[Noe]

Rd 22, 671: R/R  RHP   Mark Jones      8.29.90   6'07"-205lbs  (HS) Manheim Township HS   PA

I right-handed high school Big Unit, eh? Cool!

[Jacksonian]

Modica - a redraft from last year.

[Duman]

Quick Summary of draft picks:

51 picks in 50 rounds.

19 RHP (8 from HS)
6 LHP (4 SR in College)
6 SS (4 HS)
5 CF (2 HS)
4 OF (1 HS)
4 1B (2 HS)
3 3B
2 2B

9 Picks from CA, 8 from FLA.  Only 2 from Tx.  3 from Puerto Rico and 2 from Canada.

19 HS
5 Juco
2 Draft eligible sophomores
13 College JR
12 College SR

8 LH Bats
16 RH Bats
2 Switch

[Duman]

David 'Bubby' Williams signed and assigned to Greeneville. He has achieved the honor of being the draft pick I am pulling for this year.

[MikeyBoy]

I just finished watching videos of the draft picks for the Astros, as well as others, and I really like what I see from Jonathon Meyer. Hopefully, the Stros can get him signed away from CSF.

[Outlawscotty]

I have a general question concerning the draft in general.  Take a player, for example, Kendall Volz from Baylor, who is a Junior this year and was drafted by the Red Sox in the ninth round.  If he chooses to remain in school for his Senior season, what rights do the Red Sox have to him, and vice versa?

[Jacksonian]

I have a general question concerning the draft in general.  Take a player, for example, Kendall Volz from Baylor, who is a Junior this year and was drafted by the Red Sox in the ninth round.  If he chooses to remain in school for his Senior season, what rights do the Red Sox have to him, and vice versa?

All draft picks must be signed by Aug 17 or they go back into the pool for next year.

[Outlawscotty]

If he signs, does he have to leave school, or is that between the team and the player?

[hostros7]

He can still go to school; he just loses amateur status and can't play baseball.  He could still play another sport though.  Some guys strike deals where they even play pro ball and get a major league team to pay for their college.  They report to the team during summer, holidays etc.  Ausmus was that way, I believe at Dartmouth.  I know he didn't play ball there.  There was also a guy Garret Long (I think?) out of Bellaire that did the same thing for Yale/Pirates.

[moriartp]

The Astros had a similar deal that allowed Devon Torrence to play football at Ohio State, I think.


As for what rights the Red Sox would have to Volz next year, wouldn't he have to agree to let them draft him again?

[Outlawscotty]

So his choices are to sign and leave school for the Red Sox farm system, sign and complete school without playing college ball (report to farm system periodically if this option is available from the Red Sox,) or not sign and continue school and college baseball career, hopefully improving his draft status for next year.  If I recall, he was slated for a much higher round than this until he showed some elbow problems recently.  What is typically the amount offered for a ninth round pick?  I'm sure he will finish school anyway, but it is an intriguing decision regardless.

[Duman]

So his choices are to sign and leave school for the Red Sox farm system, sign and complete school without playing college ball (report to farm system periodically if this option is available from the Red Sox,) or not sign and continue school and college baseball career, hopefully improving his draft status for next year.  If I recall, he was slated for a much higher round than this until he showed some elbow problems recently.  What is typically the amount offered for a ninth round pick?  I'm sure he will finish school anyway, but it is an intriguing decision regardless.

Here are the details of the Professional Baseball Scholarship Plan. 

It was a smart thing by MLB to do this.  The conditions are relatively light.  Must put it in your initial contract.  Only for Junior college or 4 year (no trade schools or grad schools).  Must start college within 2 years of last day of active service.  There is a $ limit negotiated at the time of the contract.  If not all $ used, then it is lost.  Limited to 8 semesters or 12 quarters.

So you can impress Momma by giving negotiating a 250K scholarship plan.  If Bobby Ballplayer makes it to the pros, you not likely to ever have to pay it out.  If he doesn't, he isn't likely to go to a school that will cost 30K per semester.  So even if he goes to local state school for 4 years, you are likely only out 80K - 100K.  But you sold Momma on the big $ you knew you were unlikely to spend anyway. 

This is a win/win for player and MLB but a good bargaining chip for MLB.

[OregonStrosFan]

If you want a look at 7th rounder Dallas Keuchel, he'll be starting for the Razorbacks against Cal St. Fullerton at the College World Series on Saturday.  LINK

[Outlawscotty]

Here are the details of the Professional Baseball Scholarship Plan. 

It was a smart thing by MLB to do this.  The conditions are relatively light.  Must put it in your initial contract.  Only for Junior college or 4 year (no trade schools or grad schools).  Must start college within 2 years of last day of active service.  There is a $ limit negotiated at the time of the contract.  If not all $ used, then it is lost.  Limited to 8 semesters or 12 quarters.

So you can impress Momma by giving negotiating a 250K scholarship plan.  If Bobby Ballplayer makes it to the pros, you not likely to ever have to pay it out.  If he doesn't, he isn't likely to go to a school that will cost 30K per semester.  So even if he goes to local state school for 4 years, you are likely only out 80K - 100K.  But you sold Momma on the big $ you knew you were unlikely to spend anyway. 

This is a win/win for player and MLB but a good bargaining chip for MLB.

Thanks, I now have a better understanding.

[moriartp]

If you want a look at 7th rounder Dallas Keuchel, he'll be starting for the Razorbacks against Cal St. Fullerton at the College World Series on Saturday.  LINK

Game's on ESPN right now. If anyone's wondering on the pronunciation, it's "Kykle." And he has an absolutely massive jaw/chin.

[Navin R Johnson]

  What is typically the amount offered for a ninth round pick?  I'm sure he will finish school anyway, but it is an intriguing decision regardless.

http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/draft/2008/bonuses/signing_bonuses_08.aspx

Here is a link for all the signing bonuses for 2008.    9th round money for a college junior is gonna range from 100-150K.

If he decides to not sign and go back to school to play baseball, his bargaining power next year is zero.   He has no leverage when negotiating his signing bonus after his senior year because his options are, sign a contract well under the slotted amount for the round he was taken, or go play in the indy leagues somewhere.

An example from last year.   In the supplemental third round, there were 3 picks, Ross Seaton whom the Astros took, he signed for 700K.  The Phils drafted/signed Jon Pettibone a HS pitcher for 500K.   Sawyer Carroll from University of Kentucky, who was a senior was taken right after those two and was signed for 125K.

Another college senior, Josh Satin from Cal, was taken in the 6th round.  6th round money ranges from 150-400K.    Josh had to sign for 25K.

If the signing bonus money is important, unless he raises his stock so high he gets taken in the 1st 2 rounds, he won't be offered more next year than he will this year.

[Duman]

27th round pick Aaron Bray signed and headed to Greeneville

[OregonStrosFan]

5th round pick: Brandon Wikoff, SS University of Illinois - Champaign

Wikoff (162nd overall) has foregone his final year of eligibility and signed below slot for $154K (+2 semesters of schooling).  LINK. 

“The Astros and I were on the same page when it came to terms,” Wikoff said. “But it’s still surprising at how quick it came together.”  Wikoff arrived Sunday in Troy, N.Y. — home of the Astros short-season Class A affiliate, the Tri-City ValleyCats.

This article also noted that 168th overall pick Schwindenhammer signed below slot at $140K with the Red Sox.

[moriartp]

23rd rounder Robby Donovan has reportedly signed.

[Duman]

Wikoff (162nd overall) has foregone his final year of eligibility and signed below slot for $154K (+2 semesters of schooling).  LINK. 

“The Astros and I were on the same page when it came to terms,” Wikoff said. “But it’s still surprising at how quick it came together.”  Wikoff arrived Sunday in Troy, N.Y. — home of the Astros short-season Class A affiliate, the Tri-City ValleyCats.

This article also noted that 168th overall pick Schwindenhammer signed below slot at $140K with the Red Sox.

Those below slots are not much below and are higher than the 10% decrease in slots Bud wanted.

[Duman]

33rd Rounder Brendan Stines signed and headed for Tri Ciites

[Reuben]

There's a short video on mlb.com talking about Draft day 3 for the NL Central clubs. They list RHP Gregory Peavey, the Astros' 32nd round pick, as a potential late-round sleeper - if he signs. He's a draft-eligible college sophomore.

[OregonStrosFan]

Pinwheel on Twitter: Astros have aready agreed to terms with 22 of their draft picks.  (Doesn't note which ones however).

[OregonStrosFan]

Transactionist is reporting the following 22 players have been signed:

6/15/2009 - Signed pitchers Tanner Bushue, Brailon Hyatt, Justin Harper, James MacDonald, Mark Jones, Robert Donovan, Mike Modica, Travis Smink, Brenden Stines, Scott Migi, outfielders Telvin Nash, Ryan Humphrey, Brian Kemp, Julio Martinez, Jackson Hogue, shortstops Brandon Wikoff and Ben Orloff, first basemen Ronald Sanchez and Nicholas Stanley, catcher David Williams, second baseman Barry Butera and third baseman Aaron Bay.

[Jared Novak]

Glad to see the Astros FO getting these guys signed and hopefully assigned to the minors ASAP.

[Jacksonian]

You guys kick so much as you're making the draft review look like a redundancy.

[OregonStrosFan]

McTaggart blogs about the 22 signed draftees along with some comments from Heck: LINK

[S.P. Rodriguez]

You guys kick so much as you're making the draft review look like a redundancy.

Maybe so, but I will tell you this, if you write it, I will most certainly read it.  You and the other "bus" drivers, do an outstanding job...

[Duman]

There's a short video on mlb.com talking about Draft day 3 for the NL Central clubs. They list RHP Gregory Peavey, the Astros' 32nd round pick, as a potential late-round sleeper - if he signs. He's a draft-eligible college sophomore.

Very unlikely to sign unless way above slot -

“I have some decision making to do,” Peavey said. “I don’t know with this. As of right now I’m ready to be a Beaver next year.”...“It was going to take more (money) for me to head on out,” Peavey said. “I didn’t have the season I wanted. And I’m a sophomore and in a rare situation. I’m just happy to be drafted again, and I can come back and go higher next year.”

Jacksonian - you've created a monster!

[moriartp]

Levine has info on team assignments:


GCL: Bushue (2), Nash (3), Hyatt (4), Sanchez (16), Jones (22), Bray (27)

Greeneville: Williams (11), Humphrey (15), Martinez (20), Smink (31), Migl (34), Hogue (35)

Tri-City: Wikoff (5), Orloff (9), Harper (17), MacDonald (18), Kemp (19), Butera (21), Donovan (23), Modica (24), Stanley (25), Stines (33)

[Hornstros]

GCL: Bushue (2), Nash (3)

Ed Wade's full of shit

[Duman]

Ed Wade's full of shit

First Footer and now Duman.  Actually a reliable source has told me "don't believe everything you read".

BA reporting:

Fellow Midwestern righthander Tanner Bushue, the Astros’ second-round pick (69th overall) will play for short-season Tri-City in the New York-Penn League.

[Hornstros]

How bout that.   Levine reports Bushue is going to GCL team.   Ed Wade says the upper tier prep prospects will be going to Greenville.   Now BA has him going to Tri-Cities...is Cooper giving out these assignments?

[BudGirl]

How bout that.   Levine reports Bushue is going to GCL team.   Ed Wade says the upper tier prep prospects will be going to Greenville.   Now BA has him going to Tri-Cities...is Cooper giving out these assignments?

Does it really matter where BA has him going?  The Astros make that decision.

[Duman]

Does it really matter where BA has him going?  The Astros make that decision.

Yep the Astros do make that decision and it wouldn't be the first time BA has gotten bad info but it does highlight that there are differing reports out there.  Again my source told me "don't believe everything you read".  Rosters should be out sometime Thursday.

[Jacksonian]

How bout that.   Levine reports Bushue is going to GCL team.   Ed Wade says the upper tier prep prospects will be going to Greenville.   Now BA has him going to Tri-Cities...is Cooper giving out these assignments?

It is often the case that teams will change their mind about assignments more than once.  This goes for draftees as well as after spring training.

[Hornstros]

It is often the case that teams will change their mind about assignments more than once.  This goes for draftees as well as after spring training.

I guess i didn't think about that....makes a lot of sense if they're trying to build 3 different rosters (in this case)

[Navin R Johnson]

Curious.  What is the significance of where the picks are assigned?

[Noe]

Curious.  What is the significance of where the picks are assigned?

Tri-Cities is about college players competing against other college age players.  The Gulf Coast League is about getting the Academy kids (DR) and high schoolers exposed to professional ball.  Greeneville is about short season baseball, so you may assign a guy who has logged many innings playing college ball to this league.  At least this is how I read it.

[Duman]

I am getting mixed reports about the signing of the 1st round draft pick. Reliable sources are on opposite ends of the spectrum from he will to he won't sign. 

As for 45th round pick Adrian Morales, he and the Astros are taking a wait and see approach:

That signing bonus still has the opportunity to increase. The Astros are trying to place Morales on a summer league team and will follow his progress throughout. Should he play well, the dollar figure offered will go up.
 
“They’re supposed to send me a contract right now in the mail,” Morales said. “I won’t have sign it. They want to see me a little summer ball. They’re looking for a team for me.”...“I’m just going to ride it out and wait and see,” Morales said. “I’m going to hope for the best. If it’s not life-changing money, I’m not going to take it. USC (gamecocks not trojans) is a great program, the SEC is a great conference, and why not play there? I’m ecstatic about playing for USC.”

[Russe]

I have a really hard time believing that, given the state of the farm system, they would have drafted him if they weren't sure they were going to be able to sign him. That said, Mier could have upped his demands, but barring that, I think/hope they'll eventually get him signed.

[moriartp]

I am getting mixed reports about the signing of the 1st round draft pick. Reliable sources are on opposite ends of the spectrum from he will to he won't sign.

You've filled me with dread.

[jaklewein]

I am getting mixed reports about the signing of the 1st round draft pick. Reliable sources are on opposite ends of the spectrum from he will to he won't sign. 

Ya know...I was kind of wondering how all the compliments such as "best player in the draft" might work against signing said player.  I guess it's normal to sing praises of a player you just drafted, but when you say you had him marked down as the best player in the draft you can't help but think that might give an agent a certain level of security that wasn't there before.  Am I off base with this?

[Hornstros]

Am I off base with this?

I was thinking the same thing.   Certainly gives Mier more leverage knowing that.   If this is about money, then i can't imagine he'd gamble on not signing with the Stros and then re-entering the draft hoping to be drafted higher than 21 and thus potentially getting more money.   Seems like a bad bet

[Duman]

One of the factors that may be in play is seeing where other 1st rounders sign.  Most of those who have signed so far are college kids.  The only HS kid that I can find record of signing is #26 (Brewers) who signed for a reported 1.2 million.  Other signings in the vicinity of the Astros pick at 21 are #17 (D-Backs) college outfielder 1.7 million and #10 college RHP 1.6 million.  That would indicate a price of around 1.3 -1.4 million.  If that is on the table.  The kid is crazy to walk away from it.  Too much risk, not enough reward.

[moriartp]

Keith Law tweets that he hears we've agreed to terms with Mier (via MLBTradeRumors).


I feel dirty linking to Law.

[austro]

I feel dirty linking to Law.

As well you should. Here's the tweet prior to that:

I see Augie the Arm-Shredder is at it again.

I wonder if that douche even watched the game.

[jbm]

I'm sure if Jungman strains his elbow five years from now, Augie will be to blame. 

What a performance by the way.  Very impressive.

[MusicMan]

Keith Law tweets

I can't imagine 3 words that would better capture a perfect storm of idiocy and banality.

[Russe]

Not true, according to Heck via Levine:

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bb/6495446.html

[OregonStrosFan]

Keith Law tweets that he hears we've agreed to terms with Mier (via MLBTradeRumors).


I feel dirty linking to Law.

That douche, and the E-60 deal on Miggy, were the reason that I chose not to re-up my ESPN insider subscription this year.

Which remind me, anyone have insider access? Was curious what their "2 weeks in the life of Hunter Pence article" had to say...

[MusicMan]

Which remind me, anyone have insider access? Was curious what their "2 weeks in the life of Hunter Pence article" had to say...

www.chessforbeginners.com/howtodealwithadhdandstillplaychess should have a link to it.

[OregonStrosFan]

Shithead appears to have been correct after all.

McTaggart reports that Mier says a deal is done pending physical.  LINK

Jiovanni Mier, the Astros' top pick in this year's First-Year Player Draft, told MLB.com on Wednesday afternoon he had reached a deal with the Astros, pending a physical to be performed later this week.

"We finally came to a deal," Mier said from his home in California. "I'm glad we came to a conclusion and my [agents] got it done. I'm trying to get out there and play."

Astros assistant general manger/director of scouting Bobby Heck wouldn't confirm a deal was in place, but the confirmation from Mier comes after multiple media reports that the Astros and Mier had reached a deal.

[moriartp]

Glad to hear it. Kid has a big mouth.

[jaklewein]

Glad to hear it. Kid has a big mouth.

Yep...that bothers me a bit considering all the reports about his fantastic makeup. 

[Noe]

You're reading the situation all wrong.  Meir is correct, they reached an agreement.  The Astros are also correct in that they do not consider anything done until a physical has been passed.  That will happen on Friday.  I don't see the disconnect nor the premature loudmouthiness of Meir in this one.  They've reached an agreement and as soon as he passes the physical, the Astros will be singing the same tune.  It is just the Astros policy not to say a kid is signed until the physical has been passed.

Odd reaction given the fact that I thought everyone wanted this to happen!

[OregonStrosFan]

The Astros are also correct in that they do not consider anything done until a physical has been passed.  That will happen on Friday.  ***  It is just the Astros policy not to say a kid is signed until the physical has been passed.***

I read Heck's comments to Levine differently:

Responding to being told of an online report of an agreement, Astros assistant GM of scouting Bobby Heck said Wednesday afternoon that there is no agreement on a contract with first-round draft pick Jiovanni Mier.

"Talks are still ongoing," Heck said. "We're hoping to come to an agreement."

ESPN's Keith Law posted on Twitter on Tuesday morning, "Heard Jiovanni Mier agreed to terms with the Astros."

[Noe]

I read Heck's comments to Levine differently:

Responding to being told of an online report of an agreement, Astros assistant GM of scouting Bobby Heck said Wednesday afternoon that there is no agreement on a contract with first-round draft pick Jiovanni Mier.

"Talks are still ongoing," Heck said. "We're hoping to come to an agreement."

ESPN's Keith Law posted on Twitter on Tuesday morning, "Heard Jiovanni Mier agreed to terms with the Astros."

Well, you're going to have to believe me... or not.  What Heck said is well in line with keeping things out of the papers until a physical is passed. Also, none of what Heck said is an indictment against a kid who just got 1.3 million dollars.  I'd be giddy with joy at any age to get that much money and I'd tell anyone who wanted to know that too.

[moriartp]

You're reading the situation all wrong.  Meir is correct, they reached an agreement.  The Astros are also correct in that they do not consider anything done until a physical has been passed.  That will happen on Friday.  I don't see the disconnect nor the premature loudmouthiness of Meir in this one.  They've reached an agreement and as soon as he passes the physical, the Astros will be singing the same tune.  It is just the Astros policy not to say a kid is signed until the physical has been passed.

Odd reaction given the fact that I thought everyone wanted this to happen!

I don't mean to criticize either side, my comment was meant to be a lighthearted poke about Mier's definite trend of openness with the media. I love that he's enthusiastic about starting his pro career, he seems like a great kid, and I'm thrilled that they've come to an agreement. I'm betting, though, that the Astros would rather make the announcements and have Jio leave handling the media to the professionals.

[Noe]

I don't mean to criticize either side, my comment was meant to be a lighthearted poke about Mier's definite trend of openness with the media. I love that he's enthusiastic about starting his pro career, he seems like a great kid, and I'm thrilled that they've come to an agreement. I'm betting, though, that the Astros would rather make the announcements and have Jio leave handling the media to the professionals.

Not really.

[Noe]

Well, you're going to have to believe me... or not.  What Heck said is well in line with keeping things out of the papers until a physical is passed. Also, none of what Heck said is an indictment against a kid who just got 1.3 million dollars.  I'd be giddy with joy at any age to get that much money and I'd tell anyone who wanted to know that too.

From a source:

"The Commish's office has made it very clear to teams that if they acknowledge they signed a FA before the physical is passed, and the FA fails the physical, the team is still on the hook for the salary, more often than not. I"m sure the same paranoia exists with draft picks. The contract hasn't been signed and the physical hasn't been taken. Until that happens, no deal."

So both Jio and the Astros are right in this whole thing, one understands that a deal has been agreed upon in principle (Jio and his agent) the other cannot confirm nor announce nor even hint at a deal being brokered because the MLB offices will hold the team to the deal if they make such an announcement and then reneg based on a fail physical.  Teams know to handle things correctly in order to protect themselves and in this case Jio was just saying he's got a deal in principle and is flying to Houston to get his physical today and sign on Friday.

All is well.

[jaklewein]

From a source:

"The Commish's office has made it very clear to teams that if they acknowledge they signed a FA before the physical is passed, and the FA fails the physical, the team is still on the hook for the salary, more often than not. I"m sure the same paranoia exists with draft picks. The contract hasn't been signed and the physical hasn't been taken. Until that happens, no deal."

So both Jio and the Astros are right in this whole thing, one understands that a deal has been agreed upon in principle (Jio and his agent) the other cannot confirm nor announce nor even hint at a deal being brokered because the MLB offices will hold the team to the deal if they make such an announcement and then reneg based on a fail physical.  Teams know to handle things correctly in order to protect themselves and in this case Jio was just saying he's got a deal in principle and is flying to Houston to get his physical today and sign on Friday.

All is well.

Good enough for me.  Makes total sense now.  Thanks Noe.

[OregonStrosFan]

The Keuchel signing has been confirmed by KTAL out of Fayetteville, Arkansas.  LINK

FAYETTEVILLE – Junior left-handed pitcher Dallas Keuchel signed a professional contract with the Houston Astros this weekend ending his three-year stint with the Arkansas Razorback baseball team.
***
He is scheduled to leave his hometown of Tulsa, Okla., on Monday and travel to Troy, N.Y., where he will join the Tri City Valley Cats of the New York Penn League. Keuchel is scheduled to join the Valley Cats starting rotation in a couple of weeks after a pair of bullpen sessions and will be on a limited pitch count as he begins his pro career.

[Reuben]

Tidbit on ESPN's "draft blog" today (non-Insider portion) report from the Cape Cod League:
Oregon State right-hander Greg Peavey was also draft-eligible this year as a sophomore because of his age, and Houston took him in the 32nd round. On Monday, he sat at 88-91 mph for eight innings, and flashed a little more velocity earlier in his showing. He threw two promising offspeed pitches: a hard slider that he doesn't have command of yet and an 81-84 mph changeup with plus arm speed and late tail. He's got a chance to go much higher next year, and seems unlikely to sign.

[OregonStrosFan]

In addition to the draftees (per Levine), the Astros signed four more college players as free agents for some organizational depth: Max Fearnow (RHP, Stanford), Garrett Bullock (LHP, Wake Forest), Tio McLean (RHP, Tusculum), Philip Rorabaugh (RHP, North Florida)

[juliogotay]

Did we pick up any pitchers in this draft with the potential of Lyles and Seaton?

[Jared Novak]

Did we pick up any pitchers in this draft with the potential of Lyles and Seaton?

Tanner Bushue (6'4", 180lbs.)
Fastball is high 80's to low 90's and has a wicked curveball that clocks in @ 72-76 mph. Bushue has the same type of frame as Jordan Lyles and the same type of projectability.

Dallas Keuchel (6'3", 200lbs.)
Fastball in the low 90's. Throws a breaking ball and has a great changeup.