Drafted in the 7th round (214th overall) by the New York Mets in 2006 (signed for $145,000).
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Stegall was a two-way player at Greenwood (Ark.) High, where he also played quarterback on the football team. He had signed a letter of intent to play quarterback at Miami, but instead opted to sign with the Mets for a $145,000 bonus as a seventh-rounder. As a two-sport athlete from a small high school, Stegall is very raw but has as much upside as any position player the Mets have in the low minors. His best tool is his above-average raw power and the ball jumps off of his bat with excellent carry. He runs well for his size and has an above-average arm that allowed him to hit 91 mph off the mound in high school. Stegall struggled in the GCL with his pitch recognition and timing but the Mets were pleased with the way he made adjustments as the year went on and he ended on an 11-game hitting streak. He played center field this season, but his future is probably in right field. His reads and routes showed promise, but his throwing mechanics need work as he has a tendency to short-arm his throws. Stegall is the type of player that needs time and patience, but his raw package of tools offers promise. He likely will end up in Kingsport after opening 2007 in extended spring training.
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