One is a high school prodigy, noted as a five tool player and the best high school position player available in the draft. The other, is possibly the most improved college baseball player of the past three years.

As a junior at the University of Georgia, Gordon Beckham has become known as a professional hitter, waiting for his pitch, and ultimately being able to poke the ball to all fields. Gordon’s power is what makes him such a top notch prospect.

Tim Beckman has been on scout’s radars since his junior campaign that included an MVP award in the AFLAC Classic. A product of Griffin (GA.) High School, Tim’s speed and defense are of the major league caliber and his bat projects to be possibly above average with average power. A prototypical two hitter Tim has the speed to create problems on the base paths and the ability to use his athletic ability to reach base.

Both will most likely be top 10 picks. Tim projects to be an everyday shortstop defensively but Gordon could see a position change because of his below average arm and range at short. Scouts are quick to note though that he has the instinct and knowledge to be able to stick it out at the hot spot. Either way he could be up quickly as a power hitter.

Many have linked Tim to the Rays choice with the number one pick even though he might not be the best fit. Simply put, the Rays have so many prospects and major leaguers that play the same type of game (B.J. Upton, Carl Crawford, and Fernando Perez) but then again they could really use infield depth, especially at short stop.

Gordon has been linked often anywhere between the 4^th pick with the Orioles and the 8^th pick with the White Sox. It all depends on how organizations line up the hitting talent and if any would rather take pitching at their spot in the draft. I can see the Orioles, Giants, and White Sox as suitors in that grouping and easily could be the best pick available after that.

Video Highlights

Gordon Beckham