Drafted in the 19th round (558th overall) by the Texas Rangers in 2015.
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Turner began last year as Vanderbilt's starting third baseman and helped the Commodores reach the College World Series. But he never played in Omaha, as he was ruled ineligible by the NCAA before the event began and eventually was suspended for one year. Turner could have transferred to an NAIA school to play this season but chose to remain at Vanderbilt and returned to practicing with the Commodores in April, though he remains suspended. Before his suspension, Turner had looked like he would be a must-follow for scouts this spring. His power hadn't come along as much as had been expected, but he has a good swing and is a capable defender. Turner's situation is a mystery teams will have to solve, but his tools could make him a valuable pick up.
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Turner began last year as Vanderbilt's starting third baseman and helped the Commodores reach the College World Series. But he never played in Omaha, as he was ruled ineligible by the NCAA before the event began and eventually was suspended for one year. Turner could have transferred to an NAIA school to play this season but chose to remain at Vanderbilt and returned to practicing with the Commodores in April, though he remains suspended. Before his suspension, Turner had looked like he would be a must-follow for scouts this spring. His power hadn't come along as much as had been expected, but he has a good swing and is a capable defender. Turner's situation is a mystery teams will have to solve, but his tools could make him a valuable pick up.
Turner punished the ball on the showcase circuit last year but hasn't done so as consistently this spring. The 6-foot-2, 212-pounder still ranks as one of the best high school bats in the Great Lakes region, but scouts question whether he'll go high enough in the draft to give up his commitment to Vanderbilt. Turner has a quick righthanded swing and the strength for promising power potential. He also shows a willingness to use the middle of the field rather than just selling out for power in an attempt to impress scouts. He has solid speed, arm strength and athleticism, but he'll have to move off shortstop in college or pro ball. Turner profiles as a third baseman, but his hands may be too hard for the infield and could push him to an outfield corner.
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