Wally Backman

With Barney's draft status complicated by signability, the first shortstop likely to be drafted is Wally Backman, son of the former big leaguer who was a 1977 first-round pick of the Mets out of an Oregon high school. The 6-foot-2 Backman, a lefthanded hitter, is bigger and stronger than his dad, but less polished at the same age. He may end up at third base in pro ball and has the power potential for the position. Backman has not committed to a college and is looking to sign.