-Dexter Sports
8:35 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Here is the lastest post draft news and notes from around the Net.

• Yonder Alonso isn't demanding a major league contract from the Reds, according to John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer. At least not yet. Fay goes on to say that if he does, they should wish him good luck in his senior year in Miami. I disagree. If the Reds were willing to take the chance of picking him that high in the draft, The Reds need to continue to be willing and pay Alonso what they knew he would demand. The most important part of a major league contract is the promise to be a everyday big leaguer by 3 1/2 seasons. Though Alonso doesn't necesarily deserve it at the 7 spot, the Reds need to realize its the new age of drafting and part of it is taking in some demand factors of those drafted.

• John Perrotto of the Beaver County Times is reporting that the Pirates and number two pick Pedro Alvarez will begin negotiating early next week. Alvarez's agent Scott Boras will be looking for a major league contract that is worth more than six million, surpassing Matt Wieter's deal with the Orioles last season. Perrotto also reports that GM Neil Huntington and the Pirates doctors will look over 2nd round choice Tanner Scheppers before starting contract negotiations.

• ESPN draft analyst Keith Law lays out the five best teams through six rounds. The Giants with Buster Posey, Conor Gillaspie and Roger Keischnick are number one. The Royals are third, drafting 4 of Law's top 70 prospects. Law feels that if they sign Melville, then this could be a banner year for the Royals. Rounding out the top 5 is the Detroit Tigers under a unique situation. Law feels that the Tigers strategy to go for mostly relievers is bold and that most of these guys could make it to Detroit sooner rather than later. Law suggests that within this season, The Tigers could see Ryan Perry, Cody Statterwhite and the rest of the first five relievers taking over in the pen in a complete overhaul. I find this very interesting and would love to see it happen if the Tigers become sellers in July. Law notes that most of these guys are all major league ready.

• Jonathon Mayo of MLB.com looks at the top draft prospects of 2009. Highlighting the list is Missouri right hander Kyle Gibson. Gibson had 96 strikeouts this season.

• Jason Grey of ESPN.com put together a review of the 2008 draft in relation to fantasy value. It is an interesting read. Check it out.

• The Cincinnati Reds used their 49th round pick to draft West Virginia's Pat White. White is a top draft propsect as an NFL quarterback. Interesting move by the Reds. White was third round quality in 2004, before he committed to West Virginia. Well, at least White has options. White says he hasn't picked up a bat since 2004.
  

-Dexter Sports
9:32 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

What an interesting day one. We saw some strange picks, and some good ones. Lets take a look at the action across the board with my three best organizations from day one .


Pittsburgh Pirates: The Pirates did a good job in overall review of talent and adjusting that to their needs in the organization.

1st Round: Pedro Alvarez, 3b Vanderbilt - This could turn out to be the best pick in the draft and is ultimately the safest pick. His bat speed and ability at the plate is unmatched in this draft. Though he might take a while to come around, he is the top prospect of the draft in my mind.

2nd Round: Tanner Scheppers, RHP Fresno State - Scheppers quickly developed into a nationwide prospect after making the switch to pitcher early in his college career. Though he is raw and only flashes two plus pitches, his upside is tremendous. At one point he was ranked as
the tenth best draft prospect. A late shoulder injury had many teams afraid to take the risk, but the Pirates should find that this was a good time to take a chance on a raw talent.

3rd Round: Jordy Mercer, SS Oklahoma State - Mercer is an interesting prospect because he can go both ways. He is a smooth fielding shortstop with a strong arm and decent bat. His hitting could use a bit of tuning, but he has come up clutch many times for the Cowboys. Mercer also closed for Oklahoma State, and is the all-time closer in their history. Mercer might return to college though to finish up his final year.

6th Round: Robbie Grossman, OF Cypress (TX) HS - I really like this project pick by the Pirates because there is some upside to it. Grossman has show a lot of power in the gaps, but with his bat speed, he could become a home run threat pretty fast. He has plus speed on the base paths as well. He was projected in the higher rounds of the draft, but if the Pirates can get him to sign, they might have found themselves a real stud.

Kansas City Royals: It is simple why I like their Draft. They were able to yank 3 of the top 50 arms in the draft and the best prep bat.

1st Round: Eric Hosmer, 1B American Heritage (FL.) HS - At the time, I thought that Buster Posey was more appropriate for the Royals, but anytime you can add a bat of this caliber, you have to do it. Hosmer has a lot of power in his stroke, and is a decent fielder at first. He is very selective, but at the same time, takes some pitches he should crush.

2nd Round: Mike Montgomery, LHP Hart (CA) HS - Montgomery was one of the best lefties in the draft. He saw his fastball velocity increase to 93 this summer, and scouts started paying attention. Montgomery has great command with an intimidating frame that compares to Randy Johnson. His curve is also developing into a decent pitch.

3rd Round: Tyler Sample, RHP JK Mullen (CO) HS -Sample is the best prep pitcher from Colorado since Roy Halladay. He has a 95 MPH fastball with a plus curve that hammers down and out of the strike zone. He could be a work in progress, because he has never really had true command of his fastball, but why not take a chance on him with that type of stuff.

4th Round: Tim Melville, RHP Holt (MO.) HS - Though I had him being drafted by a home town team, it was the other organization in Missouri and in the first round. The Royals could have gotten the steal of the draft here, in a kid with a good fastball and above average knuckle curve. He was a projected first rounder, and might hold out and be one of the top pitchers of the 2011 draft, but it was surely with the shot. If Kansas City throws the money, he might bite.

Philadelphia Phillies: Pat Gillick took a couple chances in the first and second round, but it is those type of chances that could pay off.

Round 1: Anthony Hewitt, SS Salisbury (NY) HS - Hewitt put on a performance in workout for the Phillies and the organization fell in love with him. He is five tool player with an abundance of speed and soft hands. He will most likely hold his own at short throughout his professional career and with some good coaching, he could become a bat with pretty good power.

Round 2: Zach Collier, OF Chino Hills (CA) HS - Collier was considered by some as the best outfielder available in the draft. He has plus power, that could translate into a lot of gap to gap doubles because of his decent speed. Like Hewitt, Collier is very raw, but if the Phillies can tap into that talent, they could unlock a 30 + homer guy with a decent glove in left field.

What do you guys think? Let me know who you think had the best first day of the draft.

This is where we will be live during the MLB Draft. Join us at 1:30 on June 5th for the predraft tailgate! Feel free to drop your questions in the comments or in the Dexter-Sports Inbox.

-Dexter Sports
12:37 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

MLB.com will be airing a commemorative Negro League draft at 1:00 PM ET. This event is meant to educate those out there about Negro League players and history of the past. The idea was brought together by Dave Winfield. It will be good to tap into the past and find out about these players that have paved the way for many and didn't get the chance they deserved in many instances. Ill be tuning in and you should be too. It is free, and on MLB's baseballchannel.tv.

-Dexter Sports
11:06 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Here are some pre-draft links to enjoy.

• Keith Law has a final mock draft up. It is a free insider preview on ESPN, so check it out.

• The Detroit Free Press looks at a couple of hard throwers that could fall to the Tigers with the 21st pick, and a few prep prospects the Tigers are interested in.

• Jim Callis has a final mock draft up at Baseball America.

• Sam Mellinger of the Kansas City Star mulls on how important this draft is for the Royals and looks at past picks.

• Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has three names for the Brewers to ponder at pick number 16.

• Mets Merized has a draft wish list up for the Mets.

• John Shea of the San Fransisco Chronicle talks about how the number 5 pick is important to the Giants, and how they haven't succeeded in the past.
  

• Paul DePodesta tells in a small piece about the draft process today for the padres.

• Bucco Blog takes a stand that the pirates should be drafting Aaron Crow. A very good argument and great read.
  

• Jeff Luhnow, the VP of Player Development for the Cardinals, has lowered the list to 5 players he is likely to take with the 13th pick. I have to believe home grown Tim Melville is on that list.

Hang tight, we will keep gathering information as it comes, until we go live at 1:30.

-Dexter-Sports
10:55 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

According to MLB.com, the Rays have confirmed that 5 tool prep infielder Tim Beckham will be their selection with the first pick of the draft. Though many haven't had success with early drafted prep stars, the Rays have seen success with Delmon Young and Josh Hamilton has seen recent success with the Reds and Texas Rangers.

It will be interesting to see the Pirates and Royals next move as they now know who is going to the Rays. The draft selections should be less sporadic now in the early picks. They have an idea of who is going where.

Remember, we will be going live at 1:30 to talk Draft and bring you analysis of each pick. Stay Tuned for more information as it comes available.

-Dexter Sports
7:39 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

MLB.com's Jonathon Mayo is reporting that the Reds will take Gordon Beckham with the 7th pick. I had a feeling this was going to happen. I had Beckham selected by the Reds in my second go around of the mock draft. Beckham could be off the boards at pick number 5. It has been rumored the Giants have interest in the slugging shortstop. I like this move by the Reds. They have been looking for a solid middle infielder since Barry Larkin's retirement.

Keep it locked on Dexter-Sports. We will be looking for the rumors most of the night on the eve of the MLB Draft.

-Dexter Sports
7:10 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Here are some questions worth asking and answering on the eve of the draft. Enjoy.

1. Without knowing who the Rays will take with the first pick, Which Draft Prospect is the most likely to fall out of the top five?

The clear answer is Vanderbilt’s Pedro Alvarez. Though he is the best pure hitter in the game, he doesn’t have the ceiling of a Buster Posey or Tim Beckham. If the Rays decide to take Buster Posey, it seems most likely that Tim Beckham will go off the board with the second pick of Pittsburgh. With the Royals picking third, it is a possibility they pass up on Alvarez, because of their depth at third base. Other road blocks in taking Alvarez include: the love of prep first baseman Eric Hosmer, Alvarez’s injury history, and the need to sew up the hole at the catcher position (Kyle Skipworth). At this point, it would be smart for Baltimore to scoop up Alvarez with the fourth pick, but they have been so focused on pitching, it would also still make sense for them to follow with the plan and draft either Aaron Crow or Brian Matusz. That leaves the Giants with the 5^th pick. As it has been documented, it is nearly impossible to predict which way the Giants will go. They have been linked with Justin Smoak, Gordon Beckham, Eric Hosmer, Brett Wallace and many other sluggers. Throw in pitching that could be in the picture and it is possible that Alvarez sneaks out of the top five. Especially if Brian Sabean has his eye on a certain player, but is keeping quiet so nobody knows about it.

2. Who is the least talked about Prospect that should go in the Top Ten?

I really believe that is it prep catcher Kyle Skipworth. This kid has nearly all the tools to be an everyday catcher and he only made the move behind the plate as a junior. Baseball Analysts has a great interview with Skipworth that shows the type of kid he is. He has good makeup and can become an average hitter with good pop and a good attitude toward the game. About a week ago, I would have probably said Brett Lawrie out of British Columbia, who will most likely not go in the top ten, or Missouri’s Aaron Crow. Crow has really been noticed this week after a great shutout in regional play. He is the best Right handed prospect in the draft, and should go by the Astros’ tenth pick in the draft. Skipworth set a California record with 18 consecutive hits in April. With other prep stars such as Tim Melville, Casey Kelly, Eric Hosmer and Zach Collier taking up a lot of media, Skipworth isn’t getting the coverage that is due. He should end up in Florida with the sixth pick.

3. With so many first basemen projected in the first round, Who is bound to be the most successful?

This is a tough question to answer, but it is clear that in this day in age, that first base is evolving into a whole new position. It has become more important to scouts and teams to get players that can field and hit for average and power. Power isn’t the only thing that is needed in the new game. With that being said, I believe that Yonder Alonso and Justin Smoak have the best chances of getting to the bigs. They both have the ability to get on base, without the need to tweak their swing, and both can hold their own on defense. Though Eric Hosmer has a lot of promise and a great ceiling for scouts to work with, his hitting and approach at the plate are raw. There is no doubt that someone will get there though. Of all the major league teams, 13 of their everyday first baseman were taken in the first round of the MLB draft.

I feel that Ike Davis of ASU, David Cooper of Cal, and Alan Dykstra of Wake Forest all will have a good chance to contribute at the plate somewhere along the line as well.

4. Who is the best prospect that could be available in the beginning of the Second Round?

Teams seem to be afraid of taking right hander Tanner Scheppers of Fresno State because of issues with his elbow late in the season. If teams have evaluated his recent injuries and feel that he is too risky to waste a first round pick on, then he could make it to the second round. Scheppers has a 92-96 MPH fastball and a power curve that keeps hitters off balance. Though I would be surprised if he makes it out of the supplementary and first round, Scheppers will not last long in the second. Other starters that could go early in the second are Tyler Sample, Ryan Perry, Robbie Ross, Kyle Lobstein and Alex Meyer. A slew of closers could go off the board at this point, including Michigan’s Zach Putnam, Rice’s Bryan Price and Pepperdine’s Brett Hunter.

In a draft with weak outfield depth, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a couple of outfielders taken early in the second round. Roger Keischnick of Texas Tech could go early, and if athletic Issac Galloway is available at this point, he will go pretty quickly.

5. Who are some prospects that haven’t been heard of that could go in the first few rounds?

Brad Hand, LHP Chaska (Minn.) HS – Hand has blown away scouts with a plus change up and curve combined with a 93 MPH fastball. His mechanics though, are very violent for any pitcher expected to go early. The Twins usually keep tabs on local prospects (Joe Mauer) and we could see him go in the sandwich or second round to them. It will be hard for any team to nab him at any other position in the draft, because of his commitment to Arizona State.

Eric Thames, OF Pepperdine – Thames had an amazing 08 season that included a .387 average with 13 HRs and 57 RBIs. Scouts love his bat, but his other tools are an issue. He profiles to be a left fielder with an inconsistent arm. Another issue is his tendency to cut at balls in the zone instead of using a fluid swing through the ball. Thames was drafted in the 39^th round by the Yankees in 2007, and should go within the first three this year.

Cutter Dykstra, OF Westlake (FLA) HS – His father, Lenny was a baseball star with the Phillies and Mets and Cutter has the same qualities from the left side as his father did. Cutter brings great power for his size, and has a balance stroke that has scouts in awe. One question of concern is Dykstra’s ability on defense. He was moved to center field late in the season and doesn’t look comfortable. Cutter could go in the first three rounds, but might head to UCLA instead.

Ryan Flaherty, SS Vanderbilt – Flaherty is one of my favorite prospects because of his grit, hard work and ability to win. Shadowed by Pedro Alvarez’s bat, Flaherty hit safely in 35 straight games this season, a Vanderbilt record. Though Flaherty doesn’t show much power, and doesn’t have the range to be an everyday shortstop, Flaherty is a gamer and will find a way to make it to the big leagues. He should be drafted by the 5^th round.

-Dexter Sports
12:01 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

It's getting close to decision time for most teams. Tommorow is the day that teams make choices that either pay dividends or plainly blow. Let's take a look at some draft news around the league.

• Peter Gammons has a great piece on his blog titled, "3 Questions about the Draft." It takes a look at success rates, where players come from, and the gene pool of the draft. Like always, a very good read from Gammons.

• Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus has another mock draft out. Some interesting notes include Aaron Crow falling to the 11th spot to the Rangers, Buster Posey going to the Rays with the first pick and Zach Collier falling all the way to the 24th spot to the Phillies. With Posey going first, Goldstein has Tim Beckham going to the Pirates. Pedro Alvarez is an interesting scenario for the Royals. I could see them moving him to first or the outfield in the future.

• 9 news in Colorado has a good piece on Colorado ace Tyler Sample. Colorado has seen a lot of young aces make it to the bigs. Scott Elarton and Roy Halladay are a few names.

• Jerry Crasnick talks about late round picks and their success in MLB. An interesting read.

We will be here tonight to talk more draft eve rumors. Right now, not much is swirling. It is possible we could see Eric Hosmer go to the Royals with the third pick. That could create a swirl throughout the rest of the first round. We will talk about that and others scenarios tonight.

-Dexter-Sports
3:36 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

We have some Draft Info straight off the Press...... Whew!?!? thats HOT:

• John Manuel of Baseball America touches on all of the Options at first base and how to sift through those options.

• Amy Nelson, the wonderful and talented ESPN commentator has a great article on ESPN.com about Pedro Alvarez. Gerry Fraley also comments on the Brewer's draft history and how they could fortify this franchise in the 2008 Draft. Bob Klapisch also writes about the three early picks for the mets.
  

• Here is a list of representatives for each major league ball club, that will be at the draft on Thursday.

• Tom Verducci of Sports Illustrated has a great piece on why the draft is more important than it ever has been. With the game becoming so young, the draft is important for those teams that are aging to catch up.

The Consensus at this point is that Tim Beckham is the best player available, but the Rays could reach out for Buster Posey because of position needs. Also, in Jonathon Mayo's (MLB.com) last mock draft, he had Aaron Crow going at number 4 over Brian Matusz. Interesting to see, but Crow has been on fire in regional play. Brett Wallace of Arizona State seems to be a hot topic as well. The Twins are hoping he falls to him, but with all the recent talk and his great play, he could go sooner than the middle of the draft. Wallace has been blogging his experience on MLB.com.

-Dexter Sports
3:26 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

On Wednesday, The first draft the Dexter-Sports mock draft was released. Today, version 2.0 hits the blog, with a little bit more insight on who is going where. It is amazing how much can change in less than a week.

1) Tampa Bay Rays: Tim Beckham, SS Griffin (GA) HS - Nothing in the media, or in the Rays management has followed my belief that the Rays would like to take Gordon Beckham. It doesn't hurt that Beckham has struggled so far in regional play.

2) Pittsburgh Pirates: Pedro Alvarez, 3B Vanderbilt - I still think that the Pirates have to go with Alvarez with their pick because he has the bat that they need. Alvarez is one of the few absolute bats in the first round and the Pirates will take advantage of it.

3) Kansas City Royals: Buster Posey, C Florida State - Despite the wash out in regionals, Florida State's Buster Posey will be the one the Royals place their focus on with the third pick. Expect Posey to stay behind the plate.

4) Baltimore Orioles: Brian Matusz, LHP San Diego - Matusz helps an Oriole organization that has focused on position players the last few years. The best pitcher in the draft all around, Matusz compares to last year's number one pick, David Price.

5) San Fransisco Giants: Justin Smoak, 1B South Carolina - Smoak is too tempting for the Giants at the five slot. With a young staff, Aaron Crow could be an option, but rebuilding that aging offense is imperative. Gordon Beckham doesn't seem to be an option, but Eric Hosmer could be.

6) Florida Marlins: Kyle Skipworth, C Patriot (CA.) HS - Skipworth is still the pick, even with Eric Hosmer's draft stock rising and multiple links to the Marlins. Skipworth brings it at the catcher position and the Marlins need that depth badly.

7) Cincinnati Reds: Gordon Beckham, SS Georgia - It isn't that Aaron Crow's draft stock is dropping by any means, it's just with this offense available, the Reds have to capitalize. Especially at a weak position in their minor league system.

8) Chicago White Sox: Eric Hosmer, 1B American Heritage (FL) HS - Hosmer is Kenny William's second option to Gordon Beckham, but he will take Hosmer without complaining. Hosmer is possibly the best prep bat in the draft.

9) Washington Nationals: Aaron Crow, RHP Missouri - Aaron Crow will drop right into that hands of Jim Bowden, and even though it is the safe pick, it might not be the right one. Shooter Hunt could be the better pitcher at the end of the day, but Crow has the better upside right now.

10) Houston Astros: Shooter Hunt, RHP Tulane - With Crow dropping to the ninth pick, it gives the Astros a chance to take Shooter Hunt over Tanner Scheppers. Hunt will bring a great curve and major league ready pressence to the table for the Astros. Hunt could be the best pitcher in this draft.

11) Texas Rangers: Christian Friedrich, LHP Eastern Kentucky - I still like the Rangers taking a chance on Friedrich with this pick because they need pitching desperately. Brett Wallace, Tim Melville, Anthony Hewitt and Aaron Hicks are all better options.

12) Oakland Athletics: Brett Wallace, 1B/3B Arizona State - Brett Wallace could be the next Eric Chavez in Oakland. Wallace is the perfect fit for Billy Beane. A big bat with questionable defense. Wallace also walked a ton this season. With a little bit of professional experience, Wallace could become the next Miguel Tejada out of that organization.

13) St. Louis Cardinals: Tim Melville, RHP Holt (MO.) HS - I'm sticking with the local boy at this pick, because he has simply dazzled scouts in the area. He has a plus fastball that is gaining velocity by the month and a good plus curve that has kept hitters honest. Melville once threw a baseball through his high school goal posts from 330 feet away.

14) Minnesota Twins: Zach Collier OF Chino Hills (CA.) HS - The Twins were really hoping for Wallace, but make do with the best outfielder in the draft. Collier has been linked as high as number nine with the Nationals. He is a complete hitter and a decent fielder. Collier projects as a right fielder. He could start his career in center.

15) Los Angeles Dodgers: Aaron Hicks, RHP/OF Wilson (CA.) HS - Someone is going to take a chance in the middle of the round on this kid. Hicks has the highest floor of anyone in the draft. The Dodgers will have to decide if he will be a career hitter or pitcher though.

16) Milwaukee Brewers: Brett Lawrie OF/IF Brookswood SS (Canada) - Lawrie fits the bill of the Brewers' draft tendency. He is a solid hitter with power that rates up to 70 on the 20-80 scale. He has been compared to Dan Uggla and with the bat comes a lot of versatility. The Brewers will take the approach of teaching him a position where they need help. Lawrie could also be plugged in at catcher.

17) Toronto Blue Jays: Yonder Alonso, 1B Miami - The Jays really like Alonso because of his durability and complete package at first base. He is very comparable to Lyle Overbay but with more power.

18) New York Mets: Andrew Cashner, RHP Texas Christian - Everyone, including Cashner, will be shocked to go this early, but the Mets will fall in love with his constant 98 MPH fastball and domination as a reliever this season.

19) Chicago Cubs: Gerrit Cole Orange Lutheran (CA.) HS - The Scott Boras client might go from most likely a UCLA to a professional ballplayer, because of his high draft status. The cubs like him because of his 96 MPH fastball and his tall frame. Cole could become a future closer as well because of his lack of great mechanics.

20) Seattle Mariners: Joshua Fields, RHP Georgia - The Mariners would have considered Cashner over Fields but with him gone, they will go with Georgia's all-time save leader. Not a bad pick at this point.

21) Detroit Tigers: Ethan Martin, RHP/3B Stephens County (GA.) HS - The Tigers will be in no hurry to bring up anyone at any position but catcher. With the top three off the board the Tigers will take the highly talented Martin and make a decision if Martin is more talented offensively or as a pitcher.

22) New York Mets: Ike Davis, 1B Arizona State - With Carlos Delgado on the way out, the Mets will be looking for a power hitting first baseman. Davis fits the bill, and even though he isn't the most powerful hitter available at the first base position, he is the whole package. Others, like David Cooper of Cal, do not have the glove.

23) San Diego Padres: Reese Havens, SS South Carolina - Reese might be a stretch here, but the Padres really need a good middle infielder. With Mike Antonelli and Chase Headley majors bound, short stop seems like the position to fill. The Padres could deal Khalil Greene if they continue to be in the basement of the NL.

24) Philadelphia Phillies: Conor Gillaspie, 3B Wichita State - Gillaspie projects to be a doubles hitter and could be a good fit long term with Ryan Howard and the gang. Gillaspie is known for his high work ethic and ability to learn. Gillaspie could be the regular once Pedro Feliz's time is up with the Phillies.

25) Colorado Rockies: Jemile Weeks, 2B Miami - Weeks, who is the brother of Brewers lead off hitter Rickie Weeks, has a very similar scouting profile. Weeks will add speed and switch hitting ability to a system that really lacks a top notch second baseman.

26) Arizona Diamondbacks: Jake Odorizzi, RHP Highland (IL.) HS - The Diamondbacks are one of those that believe Odorizzi is the best high school pitcher in the draft. With him available to him, they will jump on this opportunity to develop yet another young talented pitcher.

27) Minnesota Twins: Dennis Raben, OF Miami - Nothing attracts more than left handed power, and with the future in mind, the Twins would love to ink up Raben to play with Delmon Young and Carlos Gomez in the future.

28) New York Yankees: David Cooper, 1B California - Not being sold on Shelly Duncan and with Jason Giambi on the way out, David Cooper seems like a good choice. He will most likely end up being a DH.

29) Cleveland Indians: Issac Galloway, OF Los Osos (CA) HS - Galloway will be taken here because Cleveland does not have a supplementary pick. Galloway is a top notch athlete with speed, and a very good throwing arm from the outfield. His bat continues to get better as he matures, which should seal the deal for the Indians.

30) Boston Red Sox: Ryan Perry, RHP Arizona - Why would the Red Sox go pitching? They will not be able to pass up on Perry, because of his often 98 MPH fastball. The Red Sox will further develop his secondary pitches and he could even be turned into a bullpen pitcher with a nasty fastball and slider.

-Dexter Sports
7:38 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Here is a look at the Tendencies of NL East GMs during draft week.

New York Mets: Omar Minaya - As documented by his trade history, Minaya is a wheeler and dealer when it comes to acquiring players. This wheeling and dealing style has caught him in binds before when it has come to the draft. In 2002, Expos management and Minaya passed up on Prince Fielder, Cole Hammels, Nick Swisher, Jeff Franceour, Matt Cain and Jeff Francis to take Clint Everts. As the Mets GM, his picks haven't evolved into everyday players. A look at the everyday roster shows this. Of the 25 active, only Mike Pelfrey and Joe Smith have been drafted by the Minaya Regime. Besides the lack of success, Minaya and co. will still spend big bucks to bring in a player they need or that others are afraid to sign because of commitment.

Atlanta Braves: Frank Wren - Wren makes up for what he lacks in experience in his ability to scout players well. He has seen over the development of those young Expos of the nineties and helped develop the system of the Marlins after the overhaul of 1998. Wren has seen the prospects and knows how to deal with drafts. Wren was hired in 99 to take over a Orioles team that should have made the playoffs. Wren's signings failed and he wasn't given a chance after that. In that draft of 99 though, he was unable to find success in the first round even with three picks. Larry Bigbie was the only to make it to the bigs. I don't expect Wren to do that bad, considering the great staff around him. The Braves went after home grown Joshua Fields in the second round last year and could give him a stab in the first this year.

Washinton Nationals: Jim Bowden - Whether liked or dissliked in Washington, Jim Bowden has done a lot through the draft and trade to make this team better. Ryan Zimmerman and John Lannan are the only picks under his tenure to have decent success at the big league level, but a lot of his draft talent is starting to form. Chris Marrero, Ross Detwiler, and Jason Maxwell are nearly major league ready and Bowden has a lot of young talent doing good things in the lower ranks of his minor league system. One trend that is noticable is Bowden's love for pitching in the early rounds. The Nationals have been rumored to really like outfielder Zach Collier though.

Philadelphia Phillies: Pat Gillick - Gillick has had a bunch of success in his tenures as GM for the Blue Jays, Orioles, Mariners and Phillies. Gillick has yet to see success through the MLB draft, but eventually it will come. High profile prospects Adrian Cardenas, Joe Savery and Kyle Drabeck all have the ability to be future all stars. Look for a lot of hitting prospects to be taken because of Gillicks aggressive drafting of pitching in the most recent years. Gillick drafted Adam Jones in his last draft with the Seattle Mariners.

-Dexter Sports
8:33 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Many teams looking for outfielders are hard pressed to find the talent needed to succeed professionally. Only two outfielders are listed in Baseball America's top 25 draft prospects. This trend has led to many teams changing positions of players to compliment needs in the system (Matt LaPorta, Neil Walker, Jayson Werth). On Thursday, we could see as many as five outfielder go in the first round. Lets take a look at the position.

Aaron Hicks: S/R Wilson (CA.) HS: Hicks is one of the best all-around prep players in the draft. Teams will have to choose if he is more valuable as a pitcher or hitter, but it seems his destiny is center field. Hicks has all the tools you cannot teach. His speed allows him to cover the gaps in center, and leg out hits that were not hit off the bat well. Hicks is very raw and will be taught a lot about the game in the first few years of his professional career.

Jason Collier: L/L Chino Hills (CA.) HS: Collier is a late bloom prep prospect that was discovered when scouts went to view teammate Issac Galloway and Eric Hicks in a local Connie Mack League. Collier generates a lot of power from the left side and with the combination of speed, he seems to fit the mold of a center fielder. Like Hicks, Collier is very raw and at 17 still has a lot of learning to do. That is partially why teams have interest in him so early in the draft. They will be able to mold them how they like with their own coaching. Collier has been said by some to be a lock in the first 12 picks.

Dennis Raben: L/L Miami: Raben can be described in two words: power potential. Though Raben has struggled this season at Miami, due to injury and inconsistency, Raben should be a first to second round pick because of the weak depth in this year's class. Raben shows a tendency of being too conservative in the zone and too aggressive against slop pitches out of the zone. Raben lacks speed as well, so he could be moved to first base or DH some point in his career.

Issac Galloway: R/R Los Osos (CA) HS: Galloway is a step above California prepsters Aaron Hicks and Zach Collier in right now ability, but doesn't have quite the ceiling that his former teammates do. Galloway has decent speed and power from the right side and projects to be an everyday outfielder (most likely left) with 10+ homers and steals a season. Galloway has a great outfield arm that could hose a bunch of base runners in his career.

Brett Lawrie: R/R Brooksfield (CA.) B.C.: Some say that Lawrie is the best prospect out of Canada since Larry Walker. His power, which is rated a 70 on the 20-80 scale is unmatchable at this position. Though Lawrie projects as a second or third baseman, we could see him make the move to the outfield because of his lack of defensive skill. Lawrie hit doubles off of Royals pitchers Luke Hochevar and Kyle Davies in extended spring training. Some scouts would love to teach Lawrie the catcher position, but with an electric bat, there might not be time for the development.

Roger Keischnick L/R Texas Tech: Keischnick is a difficult prospect because of his flash of excellence yet he has shown some lack of plate pressence. Keischnick tied Pedro Alvarez with 7 homer runs in his summer run with Team USA and is the top rated Texas position player in the draft. Though he seems to be a sandwich pick, Keischnick might sneak into the first, simply because of the lack of top notch college outfielders in the draft.

-Dexter Sports
2:23 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Lets take a look at what is going on the college circuit. With Regionals getting underway yesterday, we have some intriguing games. We will take a look at some links from around the blogosphere as well.

• For those of you that haven't been informed, some of the sports world's best bloggers are getting together to conglomerate on a mock draft for the upcoming draft. With the first round complete, you can check it out here.

• Minor League Ball has a mock draft of their own. Check out the first round here. Currently they are working on the Second Round. Check it out.
  

• Georgia prospects Gordon Beckham and Joshua Fields along with the rest of the Bulldog squad is on the brink of elimination in the Athens Regional, after an upset in the first game by 4th seed Lipscomb. The Bulldogs will face Louisville in an elimination game today. Big East Pitcher of the Year Zach Pitts will take the mound for Louisville.

• Top righty prospect Aaron Crow struck out ten in a 7-0 win in the opening game of the Coral Gables regional. Crow was stellar in his outing, looking his best possibly all season. according to Baseball America, sources in Coral Gables said that over thirty scouts were in attendance to see Crow's start. One issue with Crows start was his 5 walks. That could of just been jitters, and it didn't affect his ending line of 3 hits and no runs.

• Also in an unfamiliar spot is number 2 ranked Florida State, who will face Florida in the losers side of the Tallahassee Regional. Tulane's top prospect, Shooter Hunt shut down Florida in the opening game and Florida State was shut down by Bucknell. I dont think it is possible for the Seminoles to lose today.

• Todays best Match Up might come tonight as the #1 Miami Hurricanes, behind Jemile Weeks and Yonder Alonso, will take on #12 Missouri in the Coral Gables Regional. Kyle Gibson, the second best arm in the region, will take the mound for the Tigers. Lefty Chris Hernandez, coming off a win in the ACC title game, will take the mound for the Hurricanes. It will be tough for the Tigers to shut down this Hurricane offense, but it should be a good matchup.
  

-Dexter-Sports
9:57 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Lets take a look at draft tendencies of current general managers of the NL Central to give us a feel of what could happen on draft day.

Chicago Cubs: Jim Hendry - Hendry is known to wheel and deal to get a player at the deadline if he is in the hunt, and he drafts with nearly the same philosophy. Hendry and his staff is most likely to go after the best available no matter what their major league needs are. A good example is drafting Josh Vitters last year, knowing that he had locked up Aramis Ramirez long term. Hendry isn't afraid to take underdeveloped pitching that needs a lot of work and will always be a good drafter because he goes after the best available.

2008 Dexter-Sports Projected First Round Pick: Zach Collier, OF Chino Hills (CA.) HS

Cincinnati Reds: Walt Jocketty - This will be an interesting draft for the Reds with new management in place. Jocketty has been known in the past to not worry too much about the draft, but that was in a different era and market. With the Cardinals, he could assemble a team via trade and free agency. In Cincinnati, the situation will be a lot different. He will have to continue the Jay Bruce, Homer Bailey and Joey Votto type success in order to build the Reds into a winner. It will really be hard to tell what he goes after but I would have to say pitching will be on his mind.

2008 Dexter-Sports Projected First Round Pick: Aaron Crow, RHP Missouri

Milwaukee Brewers: Doug Melvin - Melvin is the reason the Brewers fielded an above .500 club last year. Unlike most of the NL Central GMs, Melvin has put his team together from scratch and very rarely has gone to the outside for help. (Fransisco Cordero, Jason Kendall, Mike Cameron..etc.) Melvin has always had a tendency to go for a power hitter and adjusting according to system needs (Ryan Braun, Prince Fielder, Matt LaPorta). Melvin has also found his fair share of great pitching (Gallardo 2005, Jeremy Jeffress 2006). Look for Melvin to continue this run of great usage of draft picks.

2008 Dexter-Sports Projected First Round Pick: Jason Castro, C Stanford

St. Louis Cardinals: John Mozeliak - Mozeliak has a great history when it comes to evaluating talent to draft. Before serving as the assistant GM, Mozeliak was a scouting director. He knows this organization inside and out, and it will show in his first draft at the helm. The Cardinals took pitchers in their first three picks in last seasons draft. Mozeliak will most likely continue the trend.

2008 Dexter-Sports Projected First Round Pick: Tim Mellville, RHP Holt (MO.) HS

Pittsburgh Pirates: Neal Huntington - Huntington will also be at the helm for the first time this draft but he is definitely not new to the scouting process. Huntington was one of the most respected scouts in his hey day with the Indians. The Pirates will look to develop better hitters in it's system. The Pirates haven't developed a true hitter from within since Aramis Ramirez. Huntington should have some secret hitters up his sleeve that nobody knows about.

2008 Dexter-Sports Projected First Round Pick: Pedro Alvarez, 3B Vanderbilt

Houston Astros: Ed Wade - Wade is mostly known for his successful rebuild of the Phillies beginning in 2000. Wade, who brought in Jimmy Rollins, Bobby Abreu, Chase Utley and Pat Burrell is best known for building from within. Wade is looking to improve on a good young nucleus that includes Hunter Pence, J.R. Towles and speedster Micheal Bourn. Though Wade has made some bad decisions trade wise, he is usually a pretty good drafter. Look for Wade to focus on pitching in the first couple rounds.

2008 Dexter-Sports Projected First Round Pick: Tanner Scheppers, RHP Fresno State

-Dexter-Sports
11:14 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Here it is! The wait is over. The 2008 Dexter-Sports Mock Draft.

To view scouting profiles, click here.

1) Tampa Bay Rays: Gordon Beckham, SS Georgia - Everyone has sold been sold on the Rays going with either Buster Posey or Tim Beckham, but I think otherwise. The Rays will want someone whose bat will be the sure thing in the distant future. Beckham gives them that.

2) Pittsburgh Pirates: Pedro Alvarez, 3B Vanderbilt - Is there another option for the Pirates? The Pirates are happy with Alvarez and will quickly try to develop him into the franchise player they need. He will fit well in the future with Andrew McCutchen, Steven Pearce and Nate McClouth.

3) Kansas City Royals: Buster Posey, C Florida State - Posey gives the Royals instant depth at a rather weak position in their system. Knowing that John Buck isn't the long term option, The Royals will develop Posey as fast as possible.

4) Baltimore Orioles: Tim Beckham, SS Griffin (GA.) HS - The Orioles originally would of went with Brian Matusz with this pick, to soldify the future rotation, but with Beckham still available at this point, the Orioles will not resist.

5) San Fransisco Giants: Brian Matusz, LHP San Diego - The Giants originally would think Justin Smoak or Eric Hosmer with this pick, but with the fast development of Angel Villanueva, the Giants will go with the best lefty in the draft.

6) Florida Marlins: Kyle Skipworth, C Patriot (CA.) HS - With the catcher market being fairly slim, the Marlins will draft Skipworth a bit earlier than expected. Justin Smoak or Eric Hosmer wouldn't be a suprise either.

7) Cincinnati Reds: Aaron Crow, RHP Missouri - Though we have saw the development of Homer Bailey, Johnny Cueto, and Edison Volquez, the Reds will go after Crow because he is that impressive.

8) Chicago White Sox: Justin Smoak, 1B South Carolina - Smoak finally gets off the board here . The White Sox are in need of a first baseman of the future. Kenny Williams will love this pick. It gives him someone to fall back on if he needs to make a trade as well.

9) Washington Nationals: Shooter Hunt, RHP Tulane - Hunt's curve will be the major seller to Jim Bowden and management. Tanner Scheppers is tempting here, but with his recent injury, the Nats will focus in on Hunt.

10) Houston Astros: Tanner Scheppers, RHP Fresno State - The Astros have made it known that pitching is on their radar. Scheppers will be the best available at this moment, and the Astros will take it. Though his recent tender elbow might be a concern, Scheppers can still hit 96 on the gun frequently.

11) Texas Rangers: Christian Friedrich, LHP Eastern Kentucky - The Rangers could really use pitching help and from the left side it doesn't get much better than Friedrich. Though his fastball sits in the high 80's to low 90's it's his breaking balls that will have the Rangers excited.

12) Oakland Athletics: Eric Hosmer, 1B American Heritage (FL.) HS - The A's jump for joy because somehow the best prep hitter has fallen to them. Though Hosmer is a Boras agent, the A's could hold a fine line with the youngster, or Beane could just pay the money for the hitter. Beane spent over a million on first round pick James Simmons last year.

13) St. Louis Cardinals: Tim Mellville, RHP Holt (MO.) HS - The Cardinal scouts have fallen in love with the local phenom an will be extremely pleased to draft him. Melville has been all over sports media and is possibly the most publicized draftee on the market. Mellville is the top high school pitcher in the draft.

14) Minnesota Twins: Brett Wallace, 1B/3B Arizona State - The Twins are a big fan of Melville, but at this spot in the draft there is not a pitcher that is close to major league ready. Wallace will bring them possibly the best third base option since Corey Koskie left Minnesota. Wallace has a good bat, but it will take him a little time to develop defensively at third.

15) Los Angeles Dodgers: Aaron Hicks, RHP/OF Wilson (CA.) HS - Someone is going to take a chance in the middle of the round on this kid. Hicks has the highest floor of anyone in the draft. The Dodgers will have to decide if he will be a career hitter or pitcher though.

16) Milwaukee Brewers: Jason Castro, C Stanford - The Brewers are desperate for catching help in the minors and Castro is the slugging catcher that the Brewers would love to develop. Though he needs a bit of help on the defensive side, his bat is major league ready. Castro could be the catcher of the future, with Jason Kendall only signed for this year.

17) Toronto Blue Jays: Yonder Alonso, 1B Miami - The Jays really like Alonso because of his durability and complete package at first base. He is very comparable to Lyle Overbay but with more power.

18) New York Mets: Andrew Cashner, RHP Texas Christian - Everyone, including Cashner, will be shocked to go this early, but the Mets will fall in love with his constant 98 MPH fastball and domination as a reliever this season.

19) Chicago Cubs: Zach Collier, OF Chino Hills (CA.) HA - With Felix Pie under producing and most of the Cubs' top prospects being at the corners, the Cubs will go with the best outfielder in the draft. Collier is comparable to Pie, but with a better bat.

20) Seattle Mariners: Joshua Fields, RHP Georgia - The Mariners would have considered Cashner over Fields but with him gone, they will go with Georgia's all-time save leader. Not a bad pick at this point.

21) Detroit Tigers: Ethan Martin, RHP/3B Stephens County (GA.) HS - The Tigers will be in no hurry to bring up anyone at any position but catcher. With the top three off the board the Tigers will take the highly talented Martin and make a decision if Martin is more talented offensively or as a pitcher.

22) New York Mets: Ike Davis, 1B Arizona State - With Carlos Delgado on the way out, the Mets will be looking for a power hitting first baseman. Davis fits the bill, and even though he isn't the most powerful hitter available at the first base position, he is the whole package. Others, like David Cooper of Cal, do not have the glove.

23) San Diego Padres: Reese Havens, SS South Carolina - Reese might be a stretch here, but the Padres really need a good middle infielder. With Mike Antonelli and Chase Headley majors bound, short stop seems like the position to fill. The Padres could deal Khalil Greene if they continue to be in the basement of the NL.

24) Philadelphia Phillies: Conor Gillaspie, 3B Wichita State - Gillaspie projects to be a doubles hitter and could be a good fit long term with Ryan Howard and the gang. Gillaspie is known for his high work ethic and ability to learn. Gillaspie could be the regular once Pedro Feliz's time is up with the Phillies.

25) Colorado Rockies: Jemile Weeks, 2B Miami - Weeks, who is the brother of Brewers lead off hitter Rickie Weeks, has a very similar scouting profile. Weeks will add speed and switch hitting ability to a system that really lacks a top notch second baseman.

26) Arizona Diamondbacks: Jake Odorizzi, RHP Highland (IL.) HS - The Diamondbacks are one of those that believe Odorizzi is the best high school pitcher in the draft. With him available to him, they will jump on this opportunity to develop yet another young talented pitcher.

27) Minnesota Twins: Dennis Raben, OF Miami - Nothing attracts more than left handed power, and with the future in mind, the Twins would love to ink up Raben to play with Delmon Young and Carlos Gomez in the future.

28) New York Yankees: David Cooper, 1B California - Not being sold on Shelly Duncan and with Jason Giambi on the way out, David Cooper seems like a good choice. He will most likely end up being a DH.

29) Cleveland Indians: Issac Galloway, OF Los Osos (CA) HS - Galloway will be taken here because Cleveland does not have a supplementary pick. Galloway is a top notch athlete with speed, and a very good throwing arm from the outfield. His bat continues to get better as he matures, which should seal the deal for the Indians.

30) Boston Red Sox: Ryan Perry, RHP Arizona - Why would the Red Sox go pitching? They will not be able to pass up on Perry, because of his often 98 MPH fastball. The Red Sox will further develop his secondary pitches and he could even be turned into a bullpen pitcher with a nasty fastball and slider.

-Dexter Sports
2:27 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

In a heavy position player first round, It isn't hard to tell what arms from the college game will rock the first round. Guys like Shooter Hunt, Brian Matusz, Aaron Crown and Tanner Scheppers are the cream of the college baseball crop. It is time for them to show what they are worth at the professional level. Here is a look of college pitchers that should be taken in the first round.

• Brian Matusz L/L San Diego: Anyone who is following the draft knows the name and they know it well. Ranked as the second best prospect in the draft by Baseball America, the 6'5" lefty has a 93 MPH fastball that unlike many young pitchers, isn't used as his go to pitch. Matusz focuses on his wonderful offspeed pitches that has many hitters dancing in the box. Matusz, who was second in the NCAA in strikeouts to number one pick David Price last year, has some of the best mechanics in the game. Matusz should be picked in the top 5. If everything falls into the place, he would fall into the hands of the Baltimore Orioles, who could desperately use a future ace.

• Aaron Crow R/R Missouri: Unlike Matusz, Crow heavily depends on his fastball to get hitters out. Ranked the best in the draft, Crow features a sinking fastball that floats anywhere between 92-96 MPH. His slider can also be devestating with a late break that is hard to pick up for lefties and righties alike. One issue that surrounds Crow is his jerky delivery and stature. Some scouts believe he will end up a closer because of his small frame (6'3" 195 LBs). Either way Crow has proven him self to every organization. Crow was undrafted out of high school.

• Shooter Hunt R/R Tulane: His name says it all. Though fairly new to the starting role, Hunt can shoot with the best of them. Hunt began pitching as a junior in high school, but that has not stopped him from dominating hitters. Hunt, who went 9-1 with a 1.97 ERA in 12 starts has a nasty bite on all of his pitches. His fastball reaches 93 on the gun but with movement it is a hard pitch to pick up. His curveball has been described as a slider with curveball dip. Minus the small things that come with experience on the mound, Shooter Hunt is the total package. He had 105 strikeouts this season. This man won't last much past top ten.

• Tanner Scheppers R/R Fresno State: Scheppers was a force for the Bulldogs this season, logging 71 innings and winning 8 games for Fresno. Scheppers' fastball touches 96 on most occasions and he feels very comfortable using it. His curve though is a different story. Though it is a power hook and is effective when located well, Scheppers has a tendency to leave it in the zone. If he can learn to pitch a fluid game without rushing himself, Scheppers could become a frontline starter. Teams will be more than willing to take that chance. Expect Scheppers off the board in the first 15 picks of the draft.

• Christian Friedrich L/L Eastern Kentucky: Friedrich reminds me a lot of Barry Zito. Simply because he is the dark horse of the first round, that all the scouts love but are afraid to take a chance on. Friedrich has a nasty 12-6 curve that at one point had top prospects Buster Posey, Jason Castro and Gordon Beckham fooled. Scouts have pushed Friedrich to use his slider more and the result has been another pitch that is plus. Friedrich also has a change that has been effective and should be a good pitch as a professional. When it is all said and done, Friedrich is the second best lefty available behind Matusz.

• Joshua Fields R/R Georgia: Fields is easily the best closer in the country. He hold the Georgia record for career saves and struck out nearly two batters per inning in his senior season. Fields has a fastball that sits in the mid nineties but peaks at 98. His curveball is a downer that catches a lot of hitters chase in the dirt. Scouts say that if Field's stuff is on, then he has the ability to be the first pitcher in the majors from this draft. I wouldn't doubt it. The braves spent a second round pick on the pitcher in 07. Expect first round in 08.

• Andrew Cashner R/R Texas Christian: Speaking of flame throwing relievers, Cashner is one of the few in this draft that can keep his fastball consistently between 96-98. Though some teams have interest in him as a starter, Cashner projects to be a great bull pen guy, simply because he is a bit erratic to start. His slider is electric when on and in the future he will probably cut out his mediocre curve from his repertoire. I have a feeling someone will draft this guy way ahead of his due time, just because he can bring the heat. That makes it hard to judge where this kid could fall.

-Dexter Sports
11:14 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

The trend has been set. Teams have gone after the first basemen early. Hitters such as Mark Teixeira, Prince Fielder, Matt LaPorta last year and many others have set the tone of teams going for the best hitting first baseman in the first round of the draft. The First Base position has developed into one of the most important on the field. This year’s cream of the crop doesn’t disappoint with Miami’s Yonder Alonso, South Carolina’s Justin Smoak and American Heritage High School (Plantation, FL) Star Eric Hosmer all projected to go in the top 10. Arizona State’s power hitting first baseman Ike Davis is also a top notch prospect that could sneak in the top 10. Let’s take a look at the first base depth expected to go in the first round.

Justin Smoak S/L/University of South Carolina: Smoak is everything that teams look for in the new age of first basemen. He is a switch hitter with gap power from both sides, as well as gold glove caliber at first base. Smoak was drafted by the Athletics out of high school, but ultimately went to South Carolina, where he put up some very good numbers. In his freshman campaign, he put up 17 homers alongside a .303 average. As a sophomore it only got better, hitting .315 with 22 HRs. Smoak’s sample size is bigger than any first baseman in the draft and that could be why he is the most wanted at the position. Smoak could be major league ready in a year or less.

Eric Hosmer L/L American Heritage (FLA) HS: Playing for one of the best high school teams in the entire nation, scouts have fallen in love with the tall lefty. Hosmer brings a lot potential with his raw power and bat speed, but lacks a bit on the defensive front. That can always be worked on with the youngster. That is if he is willing to sign the dotted line for a respectable price. Hosmer has committed to Arizona State and is represented by Scott Boras. Someone in the top ten should still give him a chance to go pro. They might end up paying for it though

Yonder Alonso L/R/University of Miami: alongside sophomore teammate Jemile Weeks, Yonder Alonso has been a big part of the Hurricane success as of late. As a freshman he led the Hurricanes in most offensive categories, including RBIs. Miami made it to the College World Series in his freshman year and Alonso’s leadership can be a big part of that. Considered one of the most patient hitters in the draft, Alonso will be held at either first base or designated hitter because of his severe lack of speed. That doesn’t mean that he can’t pick it at the hot corner. Alonso’s bat is most comparable I believe to first basemen James Loney of the Dodgers. Alonso has hit .373 with 15 HRs and 51 RBIs so far this season. Expect him to be the second or third first baseman off the board.

Ike Davis L/L Arizona State: The one word that defines Davis is power. His smooth stroke and plus defensive ability has many teams near the end of the draft drooling over him. Davis was the closer for the Sun Devils and has shown some versatility. This could be important to some teams that might consider placing him in the outfield. One thing Davis does lack is speed. Davis hit .401 with 15 HRs this season. I believe the Mets would be a great fit for Davis with the 22^nd pick.

David Cooper L/L California: Cooper hit a Pac-10 best 19 homers for the Golden Bears this last season and has a pure stroke that has a lot of scouts talking. What separates Cooper from most of his counter parts is his hand eye coordination. This could become an issue later down the line because he will have a hard time catching up to high velocity. Cooper is a below average runner and an average if not below average fielder at first base. Oakland could take him because of his undervalued ability to hit and over hyped issue of fielding and speed. The 12^th pick though might be too high to waste on Cooper, but you never know with Billy Beane and company.

Allan Dykstra L/R Wake Forest: Like the others, Dykstra could sneak into the first or supplementary round because of his power. As a freshman, he hit 19 dingers. Another attribute that scouts love is his size. At 6’4” and 230 LBs, Dykstra can strike fear in pitchers. Dykstra, like Cooper projects to be a full time DH. Dykstra could sneak into the Supplementary round, but should fall to the Second Round.

-Dexter Sports
3:12 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Though high school pitching is where a lot of professional scouts and organizations like to focus to develop talent at a young level, this year's draft class seems to lack the complete depth of high school pitching talent. Many players coming out of high school are dual threats that could play in the field and pitch professionally (Casey Kelly, Ethan Martin) . These Organizations have to make the choice of which talent to develop. Today, we will look at pure pitchers out of high school available in the draft.

Tim Melville RHP/Holt HS, Wentville, MO: He is the best high school pitcher in the draft and we could see him go anywhere in the mid first round. Melville, who will be the second straight Holt grad to be drafted in the first round (Ross Detwiller), has committed to perennial powerhouse North Carlolina, but will most likely be heading to professional baseball. Melville's fastball reaches 94 on the radar gun and he compliments it with a tight curve that is his plus pitch. Melville started off slow, and his velocity was lower than in previous seasons, but many scouts accompany that with the cold start in Missouri baseball. Melville stands at 6'5" and has a fluid delivery that he can constantly repeat with ease. Melville was recognized in The Sporting News earlier this month.

Gerrit Cole RHP/Orange Lutheran HS/Orange,CA: Cole is the most mysterious high school pitcher in the draft, simply because nobody knows what to expect from him. Cole brings a fastball that sits between 93-96 and peaks at 99 . Scouts have compared the youngster to Mariners closer J.J. Putz because of his presence on the mound. Cole, who lacks consistency and does come with some mechanical problems, has been considered a closer type, but some scouts believe the project to fix his control and pitch count issues are worth him starting. Another issue with Cole is his agent, Scott Boras. Boras will make it hard to sign the youngster because of his constant demand for more money for his clients. Cole brings a hard biting curve ball that tends to dip late. Many wouldn't be surprised if Cole skipped signing with a team and head to a college program to get more money later in his career. Cole has committed to UCLA.

Alex Meyer RHP/Greensburg HS/Indiana: Meyer was a late bloom, catching prospect's eyes at the Perfect Game National Showcase last summer. Meyer has a mid nineties fastball that reaches 95 and a real nasty breaking ball that has scouts foaming at the mouth. Since the Perfect Game National Showcase, Meyer has continued to show improvement that could land him in the late first round, but it seems that Meyer is leaning toward the University of Kentucky. Meyer, who is also advised by Scott Boras could project as the number one pick in 2011 if he goes to college. Nobody seems to believe that teams are willing to spend a pick on him, because he wont commit. I feel that someone with money (Tigers, Yankees) could make a run at him.

Ross Seaton RHP/Second Baptist HS/Houston,TX: Seaton has quickly climbed up the ladder to first round talent within the last year. In the fall, Seaton was hitting 89 on the radar gun but in the spring the warmth and training upped his fastball to 90-94 that topped out at 96. Though Seaton is a talented outfielder, who hit from the left side, he is included in this list because if he goes pro, he will focus on pitching. The 6'4" right hander has a decent slider that isn't fully developed and a good change up. Unlike many of these young pitchers, Seaton plans to sign if he is drafted in the first round, instead of attending Tulane, where he has committed to.

Jake Odorizzi RHP/Highland HS/IL: Odorizzi has been considered the best high school pitcher in the draft by several scouts. Though he doesn't bring the heat (91-93 MPH), Odorizzi has great command of a game and his enough stamina to maintain his top pitches in the late innings. The teams that like him buy into his slider and think it is a great out pitch. Odorizzi will most likely attend Louisville on scholarship after being drafted.

Brett Devall LHP/Niceville HS/FL: Devall is the top left handed high schooler available. He has a great understanding of how to pitch a game and with an 89 MPH fastball and a below average curve ball. He seems to be able to develop into a decent 4th or 5th starter, but with the development of his curve he could peak as a number two type. Devall has a nice change up that has been hard for hitters to adjust to. I compare Devall to a Nate Robertson or an older Tom Glavine. Devall has committed to Georgia.

Mike Montgomery LHP/Hart HS/Newhall, CA: Montgomery is another lefty that scouts love because of his size and ability to throw the fastball effectively. Montgomery's personality is a bit of a question though. Montgomery was ousted from his basketball team because of his love with the technical foul. Montgomery also throws a palm ball, but it is unknown whether it will ever be Major League caliber. That leave Montgomery with just two pitches, and scouts are not sure if his raw ability will be able to be effective with just two pitches. Montgomery has committed to Cal State Fullerton, but will most likely make the jump to professional baseball.

-Dexter Sports
12;16 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Though the catching position doesn't seem to be deep in the 2008 draft, there is one Florida State Seminole that sticks out. Buster Posey is an all around catcher. With a .471 average and great defensive skills shown off, Posey could be the safest pick in the top 10 this draft.

Posey, who was drafted by the Angels in the 50th round out of high school opted to attend Florida State as a short stop and pitcher. As a sophomore though, Florida State coaching asked Posey to move behind the plate to fill the void at a weak position. Posey hasn't looked back, becoming one of the best defensive catchers in the league. Scouts are happy with his plus arm strength and accuracy and really believe he could be an everyday player within a couple years. Looking at who needs catching depth, it becomes quite clear that a couple teams, including the Royals, Rays, White Sox and Reds are all good fits.

Posey was a 2007 All-ACC first team member. In 2007 Posey had a hit in 51 of the 62 games played and posted a .382 average. He had a career high seven RBIs against rival Miami that season.