Freshman Spotlight: Texas A&M’s Gavin Grahovac Poised For Prominent Role
Image credit: Gavin Grahovac (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
As an underclassman, Gavin Grahovac was widely considered one of the best hitters in his class. He was well on his way to being a potential top two–round draft choice out of high school, but had an up-and-down 2022 summer. Even with his down summer, Grahovac enjoyed a successful senior season at Villa Park High School (Villa Park, Calif.), in which he hit .350 with nine doubles, five home runs and 19 RBIs across 31 games played. While there was still top five–round chatter surrounding Grahovac, he ultimately decided to withdraw his name from the draft and attend Texas A&M.
Sky-High Ceiling
Standing 6-foot-3 and 210-pounds, Grahovac oozes physicality. His frame is thick and durable with a strong base and tons of strength in his forearms and biceps. In the box, Grahovac gets deep into his base with a slightly open front side along with an average load and small stride. There is plenty of strength in his swing, as he possesses above-average bat speed and plus raw power.
When Grahovac finds the barrel, the ball absolutely jumps off his bat. If he can refine his hit tool by improving his approach and pitch recognition skills, his offensive ceiling is as high as any true freshman in the country. Early results out of College Station have been quite positive, as Grahovac has been a standout all fall for the Aggies. The sheer impact he generates in his swing is undeniable, and he has posted exit velocities as high as 109 MPH.
Defensively, Grahovac is a bit of a swiss army knife. He played shortstop during his high school career, but figures to man third base or even a corner outfield spot long term. Grahovac possesses a plus throwing arm that plays well at third base, a position he has become acquainted with this fall.
An Opportunity To Start Right Away
Looking at where Grahovac profiles best this season for Coach Jim Schlossnagle, third base seems like the most likely destination. The Aggies this offseason hit the portal, adding shortstop Ali Camarillo (.371/.421/.611) and second baseman Ted Burton (.301/.414/.565). Grahovac is versatile enough to play either left or right field, but star sophomore Jace LaViolette (.287/.414/.632) and junior Tab Tracy (.326/.370/.419) figure to man each corner spot. Given the departure of Trevor Werner (7th round, Kansas City Royals), who was A&M’s everyday third baseman in 2023, Grahovac will have an opportunity to start right away.
Should Grahovac’s offensive skillset continue to improve, he has the makings of a potential day one draft pick in 2026.
