Drafted in the 36th round (1,089th overall) by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2018 (signed for $2,500).
Top Rankings
Draft Prospects
Gillette was one of NorCal's top prep bats in the 2014 draft, and the Cardinals took a chance on him in the 23rd round. He didn't sign and headed to Oregon State, but he got just 115 at-bats there, including a 2-for-23 showing in 2016, and transferred closer to home at NAIA Menlo (Calif.). He replaced 2016 Brewers second-round pick Lucas Erceg at third base and had some struggles defensively, and he played outfield last summer in the Alaska League, where he hit .277 with power (.445 slugging). He has raw power potential, athleticism and swing-and-miss issues. He struck out 62 times in 200 at-bats and is more raw than the average college junior. He's at least an average runner.
Gillette emerged as one of Northern California's top prep hitters last year and only improved on that reputation as a senior. The Oregon State recruit has enough hitting ability to step into the Beavers lineup and start as a freshman if he gets past the draft. Gillette has an upright stance and set-up and at times lacks balance in his swing, but he generates bat speed and has a good body at 6-foot-2, 195 pounds. He's a prep shortstop who could fit the third base profile perfectly as he matures into his broad-shouldered, thin-waisted frame and adds strength. A plus runner, he's expected to slow down but maintain average speed. He'll have to improve his arm strength to handle third base because it's just fringe-average at present.
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