Drafted in the 8th round (262nd overall) by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2010 (signed for $35,000).
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Blake Dean was a proven college hitter and a key cog in the lineup that powered Louisiana State to a national title in 2009. He lasted until the Twins took him in the 10th round because he spent most of his junior season as a DH and had a bum throwing shoulder that required labrum surgery. As a senior, Dean has continued to produce, and he has done a better job of not overswinging, letting his lefthanded power come naturally. The 6-foot-1, 210-pounder has a quick bat and 55 career homers entering NCAA regional play. A below-average runner and outfield defender, he has found a new home and done a creditable job at first base this spring. He should fit somewhere in the first 10 rounds as a cost-effective bat with a proven track record.
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