Top Florida 2019 MLB Draft Prospects

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State List Talent Ranking: ??????
(Stars are listed on a 1 to 5 scale relative to what the state typically produces, with 1 being the weakest)

1. Riley Greene, OF, Hagerty HS, Oviedo, Fla. (BA RANK: 5)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 190 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

The best pure hitter in the prep class, Greene entered the 2019 draft cycle as one of the most highly regarded bats and he has done nothing to dispel those notions during high-profile events throughout the summer and into the fall. He’s hit top-level pitching so consistently that some teams have pegged him as a future 70-grade hitter, which is rare for prep bats. Greene has a slightly wide stance and a small hitch in is swing, but he has plenty of bat speed—more than enough to prevent it from being a potential red flag. He has a patient approach, and while there is some swing-and-miss in his game, Greene does a good job of working the count until he gets a pitch he can drive. Greene currently has solid power, but that should turn into plus power in the future as he continues to add strength to a still-lanky, 6-foot-2, 190-pound frame. While Greene has perhaps the most complete hitting package of the entire high school class, his supplemental tools leave something to be desired. He plays center field for his Florida high school team, but he is a below-average runner and will quickly move to a corner outfield position at the next level. Greene gets solid jumps on fly balls, but he lacks the closing speed necessary to make the in-between plays that major league center fielders are expected to handle. He should be able to play either left or right field, however, thanks to his average arm strength. In total, Greene doesn’t project to add much defensive value, but a team drafting Greene is taking him for his bat, which should allow him to become a middle-of-the-order threat. Greene is committed to Florida.

2. Matthew Allan, RHP, Seminole HS, Sanford, Fla. (BA RANK: 16)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

Allan has been one of the most consistent prep pitchers in the 2019 class this spring. In fact, his consistency and continued improvement has helped vault the righthander into his current status as the top prep arm available in this year’s draft. Over the summer, Allan showed one of the better pure fastballs among prep pitchers, regularly sitting in the mid-90s. He paired his fastball with a true, 12-to-6 curveball, and both pitches could project as 70-grade offerings down the line. He’s shown the same quality of stuff this spring, but he’s improved his strike-throwing ability with both pitches while also cleaning up his strong, 6-foot-3, 210-pound frame. Allan has always had the look of a durable, innings-eating starter, but scouts had previously questioned how well he’d be able to maintain his physique. After his performances this spring, those concerns have quieted. Allan throws out of a slow windup and a three-quarter arm slot—a clean delivery and arm action that most teams are on board with. While Allan’s fastball/curveball combination is the bread and butter of his arsenal—and what will make him a first-round pick this June—he’s also shown a firm, upper-80s changeup that could become an average third offering. Like many amatuer pitchers, he doesn’t throw his changeup often, but scouts have seen it enough to think it could be a weapon for him as he furthers his development. Allan is committed to Florida, but he should be one of the first pitchers selected in this year’s draft.

3. Brennan Malone, RHP, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla. (BA RANK: 18)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: North Carolina

Malone initially blew up on scouts’ radars as an underclassman and has long been thought of as one of the most talented pitchers in the 2019 draft class. He has an uber-projetable, 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame, a picturesque arm action and delivery, as well as well above-average pure stuff. His fastball trails only Georgia righthander Daniel Espino’s as the best fastball in the prep class, and Malone’s heater sits in the low to mid-90s, touching as high as 97 mph. The righthander also throws a curveball, slider and changeup. Throughout the summer, Malone displayed flashes of a plus breaking ball—at times with his slider and at other times with his curveball—but scouts lamented that fact that neither of his breaking balls show above-average or plus potential consistently. He would either struggle to get on top of his curveball regularly, or his slider would lack sharp biting action. This spring, Malone seems to have addressed those critiques, as he put on one of the best amatuer outings of the season at USA Baseball’s National High School Invitational. Pitching for IMG Academy (where he transferred to for his senior season after playing in North Carolina previously), Malone threw a seven-inning shutout and showcased an 80-83 mph slider that had late biting action and two-plane break. He used the pitch effectively against both righthanders and lefthanders, landing it in the zone for strikes and also using it as a chase pitch. Malone’s mid-70s curveball has 11-to-5 shape and could be an average or better offering in the future, depending on how he continues to improve his release point. His low-80s changeup has solid velocity separation from his fastball, and he throws the pitch with solid arm speed as well. Overall, Malone might have the best combination of current stuff and future projection of any prep pitcher in the 2019 draft class, and while he is committed to North Carolina, he should get drafted at some point in the middle of the first round this June.

4. Hunter Barco, LHP, Bolles HS, Jacksonville (BA RANK: 32)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 212 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

Barco entered the 2019 draft cycle as one of the most anticipated prep pitchers in the class after blowing up as an underclassmen at Perfect Game’s Jupiter showcase in 2017. There, he showed three plus pitches from the left side with a projectable frame that had some scouts talking about the potential of Barco one day being a top-five pick. That sort of talk has cooled a bit since then, particularly as Barco had an up-and-down summer in 2018, when his fastball wasn’t quite as electric and his arm slot dropped down to almost fully sidearm. That created plenty of inconsistencies with his slider, allowing the pitch to back up too frequently and come across without the bite it had shown previously. However, Barco came out of the gate strong this spring for his senior season. He got his arm slot up and closer to a natural three-quarter look, and he also looked much more physically developed and muscular throughout his 6-foot-4, 212-pound frame. With improved strength, better timing in his delivery and a more efficient arm slot, Barco’s stuff has ticked up this spring. He averages around 91-92 mph with his fastball, but it routinely gets up into the 94-95 mph range and pairs with a low-80s slider that projects as a plus offering. He also has a mid-80s split-changeup that’s among the best in the class with a spin rate in the 900 to 1,110 rpm range. The one concern with Barco this spring is that his control has come and gone at times, but he has the athleticism and clean arm action to project at least average strike-throwing ability in the future. Scouts praise Barco’s professional makeup and he’s put himself into a class of his own in among the 2019 prep lefthanders, but as a Florida commit he is expected to be a tough sign. If he does make it to campus in Gainesville, Barco could make an impact as a two-way player thanks to above-average raw power with the bat, but he is certainly a pitching prospect first and foremost.

5. Tyler Callihan, 3B, Providence HS, Jacksonville (BA RANK: 37)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 200 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: South Carolina

Callihan is among the best hitters in the class, showcasing impressive bat speed and strength from the left side. At 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, Callihan has a bit of an unusual profile, as there’s no natural defensive home for him at the moment. But with two plus tools in his hitting ability and raw power, teams should feel fairly confident about drafting the bat and figuring out where he fits in the field later. Callihan barreled up top pitching last summer during the showcase circuit, routinely showing in-game power against 90-plus mph velocity, and he has continued to perform against strong competition this spring. He has played both shortstop and catcher for his high school team, but he might fit better as a second or third baseman in the future, with the potential to move to an outfielder corner as well. Catching could also be a legitimate option at the next level, as Callihan has refined his work behind the plate and has solid arm strength with good carry on his throws, but he’ll still need plenty of work. His arm action can get long and his slot is too low at times, while he would also need to further improve his footwork and receiving ability. However, a strong work ethic leads many scouts to believe Callihan could make catching work if a team thinks that’s the best fit for him. The most likely outcome is that Callihan will move to a less demanding defensive position, which will prevent slowing down the development of his bat. Callihan is committed to South Carolina.

6. Rece Hinds, 3B, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla. (BA RANK: 39)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Louisiana State

If you’re looking for the most power potential in the 2019 class, Hinds might be your guy. With a muscular, 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame, Hinds packs a tremendous punch with a mechanically smooth righthanded swing. He easily has 70-grade raw power currently, and you don’t have to look far to find scouts who will put 80-grade power on Hinds’ bat. Additionally, he has plus-plus arm strength from the left side of the infield and threw 98 mph across the diamond at Perfect Game’s National Showcase last summer. If a team is looking for massive tools and upside, Hinds would be a pretty good place to start. While he would not look out of place in a major league uniform right now, Hinds would get exposed against professional pitching quickly. He currently lacks overall polish to his game, and he showed plenty of swing-and-miss throughout the summer showcase circuit and into the spring. While his plus bat speed allows him to time up premium velocity, Hinds regularly gets fooled on even average offspeed offerings and will often chase pitches out of the zone. Defensively, Hinds has played shortstop for IMG Academy, but he already looks too big for the position and should start out at third base at the next level. His arm strength should be an asset at the hot corner, or even in right field if he has to eventually move to an outfield corner. To stay on the infield, he’ll need to improve both his hands and his throwing accuracy—particularly when his feet aren’t set. Teams will be split on Hinds this June because of his questionable hit tool, but there’s no denying the jaw-dropping power he displays in batting practice. Whichever team drafts him will need to be patient as he makes the necessary adjustments and figures out how to stay disciplined at the plate to punish offspeed pitches, but there could be a massive payoff down the road. Hinds is committed to Louisiana State.

7. Kendall Williams, RHP, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla. (BA RANK: 58)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-6 • Wt: 206 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Vanderbilt

A 6-foot-6, 206-pound righthander who pitches alongside Brennan Malone at IMG Academy, Williams has added muscle and strength to his frame over the past few seasons, pairing a big league body with a solid mix of five pitches, clean arm action and adequate strike-throwing ability. Williams might not have a plus pitch at the moment, but each of his offerings project as average or above-average, led by a fastball that sits in the low 90s and touches 94-95 mph. He had previously used a mid-70s curveball as his go-to secondary offering, but he recently added a low-80s slider with short break that also showed out-pitch potential at USA Baseball’s National High School Invitational this spring. Meanwhile, Williams’ curveball varied in shape from an 11-to-5 downer to three-quarter breaker with finish to the glove side. He also throws a low-80s changeup and a two-seam fastball. There is some slight length in Williams’ arm action, but he repeats a high, three-quarter arm action well and throws strikes consistently. While he doesn’t have overwhelming pure stuff, the tall righthander gets good angle on his fastball and still has some physical projection remaining. Williams is a Vanderbilt commit and could be a tougher sign, but he has the talent to be selected on the first day of the draft.

8. Brady McConnell, SS, Florida (BA RANK: 59)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Reds ’17 (33)

In 2017, McConnell was rated the No. 39 draft prospect out of Merritt Island (Fla.) High due to an elite set of tools, headlined by plus-plus running ability and defensive potential at shortstop. However, his inconsistencies throughout the summer and spring of his senior year allowed teams to pass on him until the Reds drafted him in the 33rd round. He reached campus at Florida, where he struggled (.136/.136/.273) and played in just nine games despite being the highest-ranked position player to make it to campus. In his draft-eligible sophomore season, McConnell has played much closer to what his pedigree and toolset would suggest, leading Florida batters in batting average (.354) and home runs (10) through his first 46 games. He’s added around 10-15 pounds of muscle since arriving to Gainesville and now has plus raw power to go along with his plus running ability and plus arm strength. However, scouts are still puzzled with McConnell, as they question his true hitting ability—he struck out 41 times and walked just 15 times through his first 170 at-bats—and cite the many mechanical tweaks that McConnell makes at the plate. Additionally, some scouts think he’ll be forced to move off of shortstop, as the game speeds up on him at times, and he still lacks the sort of consistency and focus that a shortstop needs to show at the next level. While he does have plus speed, his internal clock seems to be a bit off at the position, and he struggles to get his feet set properly at times. Still, his production in the SEC will leave lasting impression for evaluators, and there is no doubting the impact tools that he brings to the field every day.

9. Yordys Valdes, SS, McArthur HS, Hollywood, Fla. (BA RANK: 73)
Source: HS • Ht: 5-10 • Wt: 170 • B-T: B-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida State

A pop-up shortstop in Florida, Valdez is a glove-first player with advanced actions and ability up the middle. He compares well with the best prep defenders in the 2019 class, and he has put himself in position to go on the first day of the draft as a switch-hitter who should stick at shortstop. As confident and flashy as Valdez is defensively, his bat has a long way to go. There is some contact ability, but he lacks the size and strength to drive the ball with impact on a regular basis.

10. Drew Mendoza, 3B, Florida State (BA RANK: 75)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-5 • Wt: 225 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: Tigers ’16 (36)

In 2016, Mendoza was a quick-rising draft prospect with a big frame who showed a knack for hitting and future power projection. Scouts hit that evaluation on the head, and over three years with Florida State, Mendoza has filled out his frame and is now listed at 6-foot-5, 225 pounds. That strength has produced double-digits home runs in two of his three years in the ACC, including this spring, when he’s hit a career-high 13 home runs through 46 games. Mendoza has above-average raw power, but it’s strength over bat speed and scouts question how much he’ll be able to reach his power against professional pitching. He has a solid eye at the plate and doesn’t chase out of the zone often, but he swings and misses enough at pitches in the zone for scouts to question his overall hitting ability. His wood bat track record in the Cape Cod League, where he’s hit .199/.291/.278 with a 32 percent strikeout rate in 57 games, is also discouraging. Mendoza actually moves well for his size at third base, but he’s played below-average defense this spring. His throwing accuracy has been a bit scattered, leading some evaluators to think he would be a better fit for first base, where there would be even more pressure on his bat. There’s no denying Mendoza has produced each season with the Seminoles, and his power has ticked up since his freshman season. But with a strikeout rate that’s never been lower than 20 percent and questions about his approach against higher-level pitching, there is some risk projecting his bat moving forward, despite his obvious size and strength.

11. Christian Cairo, SS, Calvary Christian HS, Clearwater, Fla. (BA RANK: 82)
Source: HS • Ht: 5-9 • Wt: 176 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Louisiana State

A 5-foot-9, 176-pound shortstop, Cairo will be knocked for his size, but he is a polished player both offensively and defensively. He has a strong hit tool and a history of making solid contact against good pitching, although power will likely never be a major part of his game given his frame. He has quick hands and a short, line-drive oriented stroke from the right side. Defensively, Cairo has an advanced feel for the game, which shouldn’t come as a surprise as the son of 17-year big leaguer Miguel Cairo. While he’s just an average runner, Cairo has excellent instincts and always seems to put himself in the right position with impeccable glove work and above-average arm strength. Despite all of that, the fact that Cairo is undersized and a righthanded hitter without plus speed could mean he goes to college, and he is expected to be a tough sign out of his commitment to Louisiana State.

12. Ivan Johnson, SS, Chipola (Fla.) JC (BA RANK: 110)
Source: JC • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 190 • B-T: B-R • Commitment/Drafted: South Carolina

Johnson ranked No. 473 on the 2017 BA 500 out of Kennesaw (Ga.) Mountain High after showing solid defensive actions at shortstop and performing well against some of the class’ top prep pitchers. However, he went undrafted and instead made it to campus at Georgia, where Johnson struggled, hitting just .239/.314/.283 with a 38 percent strikeout rate in 46 at-bats. Following that season, Johnson transferred to Chipola (Fla.) JC for the 2019 campaign, where he led the team in each triple-slash category—hitting .389/.500/.606 with nine home runs, 33 walks and 37 strikeouts in 55 games. Johnson looked more physical during the fall and that has shown up in his power production, which is at least average in games with plus raw power. Johnson’s swing works well from both sides, with quick hands that can catch up to velocity, although he sometimes struggles with offspeed offerings on the outer half of the plate as a lefthanded hitter. There is some length to his swing at times—and scouts will certainly not forget about the strikeout rate he showed during his brief look with Georgia—but most scouts grade his hit tool as a 50 after what he’s shown this spring. Johnson has split time at shortstop and second base for Chipola. He has the defensive actions to handle shortstop, but, as an average runner, he might be a more ideal fit as a second baseman. Johnson performed well in front of high-level decision-makers this spring and could go off the board early on Day 2.

13. Evan McKendry, RHP, Miami (BA RANK: 122)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

McKendry has been a solid, three-year starter for the Hurricanes, and he was named third-team all-ACC in 2018 after posting a 3.52 ERA over 14 starts and 87 innings with 114 strikeouts and 33 walks as a sophomore. That year, McKendry’s fastball sat in the low 90s, but this spring—after undergoing hip surgery and sitting out last fall—his fastball velocity has been more in the 88-89 mph range. McKendry complements his fastball with a swing-and-miss changeup that’s among the best in the country. In contrast, scouts wonder about the quality of his ability to generate spin, as his slider grades out as a below-average pitch. The 6-foot-3, 200-pound righthander is more of a high-floor prospect rather than one filled with upside. Teams will need to have conviction that his fastball velocity will return to form after recovering from his hip injury and also missing time in April and May this spring. His long track record against ACC competition should ease some concerns, but there are real questions that could scare teams as well.

14. Tyler Dyson, RHP, Florida (BA RANK: 123)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 225 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

A first-team Preseason All-American, Dyson was set up to extend Florida’s streak of first-round pitching prospects to four years, following in the footsteps of A.J. Puk and Dane Dunning (2016), Alex Faedo (2017) and Brady Singer and Jackson Kowar (2018). However, Dyson has struggled with both his command and secondary offerings this spring, to the point where he lost his spot in the Gators’ starting rotation. Through his first 10 appearances, Dyson posted a 5.06 ERA with career-low strikeout rate (6.75 batters per nine innings) and a walk rate approaching five batters per nine innings. Dyson does have a plus fastball—in terms of its pure velocity in the low to mid-90s—but the pitch lacks life, and with below-average control the pitch has been more hittable than the radar gun would suggest. Previously, Dyson has shown a plus slider as well, but the pitch has been more average this spring. His changeup has also been below-average, which has allowed hitters to simply sit on his fastball. Dyson was most effective during his freshman season at Florida when he was used as a reliever. Currently working with a two-pitch mix and below-average command, scouts now believe that’s his most likely future role as well. Dyson does have a solid frame at 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, so if a team believes it can figure out how to improve his control via mechanical tweaks or simplifying his delivery—as well as improving his third-pitch changeup—then he may still have some upside as a future starter.

15. Austin Shenton, 3B, Florida International (BA RANK: 139)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 195 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: Indians ’16 (34)

After transferring from Bellevue (Wash.) JC to Florida International prior to the 2018 season, Shenton had a standout year in Conference USA, where he hit .344/.417/.524. After his breakout spring, Shenton went to the Cape Cod League, where he ranked as the No. 35 prospect in the league thanks to his feel for barreling the baseball from the left side. There, he hit .349/.450/.490 with four home runs in 44 games. This spring, however, Shenton changed his swing and got more pull-oriented, which led to increased swing-and-miss concerns as his previous strength was hitting the ball to all fields. Through the first two months of the season, Shenton hit just .230 (23-for-100) with 25 strikeouts and 16 walks. After hitting with wood in batting practice to re-tool his swing, Shenton started to get back on track during the second half of the season. In 25 games from April 3 to May 18, he hit .433 (42-for-97) with 13 strikeouts and 12 walks. Listed at 6 feet, 195-pounds, Shenton could grow into more power in the future, but is currently a hit-over-power lefthanded bat. He’s improved defensively this spring at third base, but scouts question his athleticism and believe that he may ultimately end up at first base. He has average arm strength, but it plays more as fringe-average arm strength in games due to a lack of foot speed and overall agility.’

16. Joseph Charles, RHP, TNXL Academy, Altamonte Springs, Fla. (BA RANK: 142)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 190 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: North Carolina

A 6-foot-3, 190-pound righthander committed to North Carolina, Charles has big arm strength and regularly runs his fastball into the mid-90s. He’s touched as high as 97 mph, but he consistently pitches in the low 90s. Charles’ fastball is his best offering, although he does flash average breaking balls in the 76-82 mph range that can sometimes blend together depending on the day. He infrequently throws a mid-80s changeup, but when he did throw the pitch last summer it would often spike in the dirt. Charles throws out of a three-quarter arm slot, but he has a very short arm action. The ball comes out of his hand right behind his ear, and while that does give him some deception, scouts point to the shortness of his arm stroke and a high back elbow when talking about the inconsistencies of Charles’ breaking ball. Charles has below-average control and can scatter the zone regularly when his delivery gets out of sync, and he has a tendency to yank and overthrow his fastballs. However, when everything is working properly for Charles, he has an electric fastball and a solid breaking ball that can overwhelm hitters. He’ll need to refine his control and figure out how to be more consistent on a day-to-day basis in order to get the most out of his raw stuff.

17. Connor Walsh, SS, Niceville (Fla.) HS (BA RANK: 144)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Mississippi

Walsh is one of the fastest players in the 2019 prep class. He’s a plus-plus runner who also played wide receiver for his high school football team. On the diamond, Walsh plays shortstop and has a chance to stick with solid actions and above-average arm strength. If for some reason he has to move off of the position at the next level, he has the tools to profile nicely as a dynamic center fielder. He has the athleticism and instincts to handle the job just fine. Walsh has a short, quick stroke from the right side, but his bat is the lightest tool in his arsenal. Scouts put below-average future grades on his hitting, but he does have some ambush power and has the frame—6-foot-2, 185 pounds—to grow into more power down the line. Some teams might prefer to let Walsh go to school at Mississippi and show that he can hit in the SEC, but his running ability and defensive value might be enough for someone to take a chance early on Day 2.

18. Dylan Eskew, RHP, Sickles HS, Tampa (BA RANK: 165)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Miami

A lanky, 6-foot-3, 185-pound righthander, Eskew has taken a jump this spring. Last summer, the Miami commit was in the upper 80s and showed good feel to spin his breaking ball, but scouts have been impressed with his uptick during his senior season. His fastball has been up to 93 mph, and he’s pitched more regularly in the low 90s. He’s also shown two distinct breaking balls in a slider and curveball that both look like solid offerings. His delivery is a bit unorthodox, with a long arm action that has significant plunge in the back and crossfiring action in his lower half, but he’s athletic enough to make it work. He hasn’t had any strike-throwing issues this spring, doing well to sync his upper and lower halves. Eskew is a projectable arm who could still add plenty of weight and increase his strength in the future. While he’s has a strong commitment to Miami, he has pitched well enough this spring that some team could draft him in the third or fourth round.

19. Jake Randa, OF, Northwest Florida State JC (BA RANK: 181)
Source: JC • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 185 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Mississippi State

The son of 12-year big leaguer Joe Randa, Jake is a sophomore outfielder at Northwest Florida State JC and one of the top junior college hitters in the country. As a freshman, Randa led the team in most offensive categories and posted a .412/.507/.753 slash line with 13 home runs, 11 doubles and more strikeouts (28) than walks (23). After that, Randa played in the Northwoods League over the summer, hitting .318 with nine home runs in 68 games with a wood bat. He also showed impressive plate discipline, walking 37 times compared to 40 strikeouts. Randa has been impressive with the bat again this spring, slashing .368/.438/.547 with five home runs, 20 strikeouts and 19 walks in 54 games. Scouts see him as an average hitter with above-average power, and he could be drafted somewhere on the middle of Day 2 this June. He could further elevate his profile if he sticks to his Mississippi State commitment and continues to hit at a high level in the SEC. Randa projects as a corner outfielder or first baseman, defensively.

20. Tyler Owens, RHP, Trinity Catholic HS, Ocala, Fla. (BA RANK: 182)
Source: HS • Ht: 5-10 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

An undersized, 5-foot-10, 185-pound righthander, Owens sneakily has one of the harder fastballs in the prep class. While he’s small, he can ratchet his fastball into the 97-98 mph range at his best, but he more often sits in the 92-94 mph range, where his control of the pitch is better. There is some effort in his delivery, but not as much as would be expected for a pitcher of his stature who throws that hard. Owens throws out of a three-quarter slot and has a slight plunge in the back. As for secondary pitches, Owens has a slider that flashes the makings of a solid offering, although it’s frequently a fringe-average pitch. He also throws an average changeup, but many think his future will be in the bullpen, where he’ll need to sharpen his slider and could work with a lethal two-pitch mix. Owens is committed to Florida.

21. Tyler Nesbitt, RHP, LaBelle (Fla.) HS (BA RANK: 194)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

Nesbitt progressed throughout the summer and fall prior to his high school season showing impressive stuff for scouts, first during the summer at an event in Georgia and again during the fall at Perfect Game’s Jupiter showcase, where he showed impressive fastball velocity and a plus breaking ball. Shortly thereafter, Nesbitt committed to Florida (he was previously committed to Florida Gulf Coast) and seemed like one of the 50 best high school prospects in the 2019 class. However, this spring his stuff hasn’t been to the level that he flashed at times last summer and fall, with a fastball that sits mostly in the 88-91 mph range and a fringy breaking ball that scouts peg as average. Nesbitt has struggled to get on top of his breaking ball consistently, but he’s shown enough flashes to think that it could be a legitimate out-pitch in the future. Nesbitt also throws a low-80s changeup. Standing at 6-foot-3, 185 pounds, Nesbitt still has some room to add strength.

22. J.C. Flowers, OF/RHP, Florida State (BA RANK: 205)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 190 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Reds ’16 (18)

A legitimate two-way player for the Seminoles, Flowers was a highly touted prospect out of Trinity Christian Academy in Jacksonville, where he was also recruited as a wide receiver. Flowers’ best tool might be his athleticism, which allows him to cover expansive ground in center field, where he is an above-average defender. Which role he fills at the next level could depend on who drafts him, however, as some in the industry prefer him on the mound and some teams prefer him as a hitter. Flowers has some pop in the bat—he hit a career-best 11 home runs through his first 54 games this spring—but he has a career strikeout rate of approximately 22 percent and scouts are concerned with the amount of swing-and-miss in his game. On the mound, Flowers has been used as FSU’s closer this spring, though he did start one game in early April against Jacksonville, when he pitched three innings and struck out three batters. Flowers’ fastball reaches the mid-90s at its best, but it usually sits in the low 90s and averages 91 mph. He has a hard slider or cutter that sits in the upper 80s and flashes above-average, but the pitch remains inconsistent. Flowers also shows a solid, third-pitch changeup. For the most part, Flowers has been up and down as a pitcher this spring. But his athleticism, and the fact that he’s a two-way player, could mean there is plenty of room for improvement if he focuses exclusively on pitching. He could be drafted in the middle of Day 2, although there are a few teams who might think he could be a starting pitcher. If that’s the case, Flowers could be drafted sooner rather than later on the draft’s second day.

23. Thomas Farr, RHP, Northwest Florida State JC (BA RANK: 213)
Source: JC • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 175 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: South Carolina

A 6-foot-1, 175-pound righthander with a deliberate windup, high leg kick and some coil, Farr was poised to lead Northwest Florida State’s pitching staff after a solid freshman campaign in 2018 when he struck out 56 batters in 67.2 innings. He was off to an even better start this spring, posting a 1.38 ERA over his first three starts with 14 strikeouts and just three walks before injuries derailed the rest of his season. Farr showed big stuff prior to being sidelined, with a mid-90s fastball, 84-86 mph changeup and a downer breaking ball with 11-to-5 shape that all come from a strong, physical frame. Farr might have shown enough to pique scouts’ interest, but if teams are wary of his track record, he’ll have a chance to further improve his stock next season at South Carolina.

24. Grant McCray, OF, Lakewood Ranch HS, Bradenton, Fla. (BA RANK: 221)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 172 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida State

The son of former big leaguer Rodney McCray, Grant is a toolsy center fielder with plus speed, wiry strength and physical projection remaining in his 6-foot-1, 172-pound frame. He received a lot of buzz late this spring, and his athleticism will suit him well in center field as he progresses. McCray ran track and played football in high school, but his upside is highest on the baseball field because of his speed and quick hands in the lefthanded batter’s box. A Florida State commit, McCray could be drafted at some point in the middle of Day 2.

25. Hylan Hall, OF, Ocoee (Fla.) HS (BA RANK: 230)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 190 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Miami

An athletic outfielder with solid bat speed and plus running ability, Hall was at TNXL Academy this spring but didn’t play much early in the year due to a suspension. He eventually left the program and returned to Ocoee (Fla.) High, but scouts didn’t get to see him play as much as they would have liked. When scouts were able to lay eyes on Hall, his swing looked different than it did last summer, when he showed potential to routinely impact the ball with strong hands. But even at his best last summer, Hall had an aggressive approach and swung and missed frequently. He took that aggression to the base paths, where his speed allows him to be a threat at any time, and the outfield, where he can make tough plays and chase down balls in the gaps. He needs to refine his route-running, but he has solid-average arm strength that could allow him to play any of the three outfield positions. Hall has the raw tools to rank much higher than this—he was a top-100 prospect on our Preseason Top 200 list—but he will need to refine all aspects of his game in order to get the most out of his tools. Hall is committed to Miami.

26. Wil Dalton, OF, Florida (BA RANK: 232)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 195 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Orioles ’16 (29)

Dalton was a 29th-round pick of the Orioles in 2016, but he instead chose to enroll at Columbia State (Tenn.) JC, where he hit .392 with 21 doubles and 15 home runs. After transferring to Florida, Dalton didn’t miss a beat. He was the only player to start all 70 games for the Gators in 2018, hitting .262/.338/.542 with 19 home runs in his first year against Southeastern Conference competition. He hasn’t quite returned to that level this spring, posting a .250/.365/.432 slash line with just seven home runs through his first 52 games. Some scouts didn’t like the fact that he widened his stance in the fall, and his bat speed and raw power tend to show up more in batting practice rather than during games. Dalton has reduced his strikeout rate to 18.5 percent in 2019, but scouts are still wary about the amount of swing-and-miss in his game. Defensively, Dalton is a corner outfielder. He can handle either position, but his defense will neither add tremendous value nor significantly hurt a team.

27. Brandon Sproat, RHP, Pace (Fla.) HS (BA RANK: 233)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 165 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

A projectable, 6-foot-2, 165-pound righthander out of Florida, Sproat has a fast arm and solid delivery. His low-90s fastball has reached 94 mph this spring, and he pairs the pitch with a hard, sweeping slider in the low to mid-80s. He also shows solid shape with his curveball. Evaluators question Sproat’s ability to throw strikes consistently, and he’ll need to sharpen both of his secondaries for them to become average offerings in the future. His operation works well, and he should continue to fill out his frame as he matures. Sproat is committed to Florida.

28. Brandon Walker, RHP, North Florida Christian HS, Tallahassee, Fla. (BA RANK: 251)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 195 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida State

An athletic righthander committed to Florida State, Walker impressed scouts as an underclassmen with big-time stuff and potential. His stuff backed up last summer, however, where he threw in 86-91 mph range with a curveball that lacked power, though did flash solid spin and 11-to-5 shape. This spring has been better for the 6-foot, 195-pound righthander, as he’s been more in the low 90s, occasionally touching 94 or 95 with a better breaking ball in the mid-70s.

29. Austin Langworthy, OF, Florida (BA RANK: 264)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 5-10 • Wt: 195 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Reds ’16 (31)

A three-year starter for Florida, Langworthy is a 5-foot-10, 195-pound outfielder who profiles more as a left fielder due to his below-average speed and below-average arm. With a smooth, lefthanded swing, Langworthy has always had a solid approach at the plate and posted good on-base percentages with 103 walks compared to 123 strikeouts through his first 178 games with Florida. Langworthy has a flat bat path that can get long at times, and scouts wonder if he shows enough power to profile as a corner outfielder, but he did hit seven home runs in 26 games in the Cape Cod League last summer. A grinder who has good on-field instincts despite a lack of speed, Langworthy will have to play above his tools to carve out a role greater than that of a future fourth outfielder.

30. Maxwell Romero Jr., C, Pembroke Pines (Fla.) Charter HS (BA RANK: 275)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 185 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: Vanderbilt

A 6-foot, 185-pound catcher committed to Vanderbilt, Romero has above-average power potential from the lefthanded batter’s box and a strong arm from behind the plate. Romero showed sub-2.00 pop times in workouts last summer and has good carry on his throws, but he’ll need to shorten up his exchange, refine his footwork and improve his throwing accuracy at the next level. He has solid receiving and blocking ability, with strong, quiet hands. Offensively, Romero has power, but he’ll need to simplify an offensive approach and setup that includes a deep load and slight, pre-pitch coil that can disrupt his timing in order to consistently take advantage of his potential.

31. Robbie Peto, RHP, Stetson (BA RANK: 314)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 215 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Angels ’16 (30)

Highly touted out of high school, Peto was drafted by the Dodgers in the 30th round in 2016, but instead made it to campus at North Carolina. After a redshirt season in Chapel Hill due to back issues, Peto transferred to the State JC of Florida for his 2018 season, where his stuff was down in the 90-91 mph range. At Stetson, Peto’s stuff has bounced back and he’s thrown a 94-95 mph fastball that has touched 97. His secondaries were well below-average a year ago, but they have improved this season. The arsenal includes a curveball that he began throwing with a spike grip once he got to Stetson—which has an impressive track record of developing pitchers. While Peto has posted a 4.48 over 13 starts, he has struck out 68 batters in 60 innings and his improved stuff could interest teams on day two, though his medical history will be a factor.

32. Donovan Benoit, RHP, Santa Fe (Fla.) JC (BA RANK: 316)
Source: JC • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 195 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

Benoit is a 6-foot-4, 195-pound sophomore who transferred over from Tennessee after throwing 21 innings for them in 2018. This spring with Santa Fe, Benoit threw 63.2 innings in 14 starts and showed a solid fastball that sits in the low-90s, but has been up to 95. His most consistent secondary offering is a solid changeup, but scouts think Benoit has the frame, arm action and strikethrowing ability to have a chance as a starter at the next level despite a fringey slider.

33. Will Bartlett, 1B/C, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla. (BA RANK: 319)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Arizona

Perhaps a bit under the radar thanks to playing with a stacked IMG Academy team that includes multiple day one prospects, Bartlett has been seen by plenty of high-level evaluators this spring, and for the most part he’s been the best in-game hitter on the team. Bartlett has plenty of strength in his 6-foot-2, 210-pound frame and has easy plus raw power in batting practice that has translated well in games. He has competitive at-bats and can catch up with high-end velocity, though it’s a strength-based swing rather than twitchy bat speed. Bartlett has caught at times for IMG Academy this spring, though he mostly plays first base and is a better fit there at the next level with lots of improvement needed to stick at catcher. Bartlett is originally from the West Coast and is committed to Arizona.

34. Joshua Rivera, 3B, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla. (BA RANK: 333)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 205 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

The co-MVP of Perfect Game’s Jupiter tournament, Rivera led his Florida Burn travel ball team last fall and stood out for his balanced offensive approach and defensive contributions at shortstop, though he has played third base for IMG this spring and projects better at the hot corner at the next level. Rivera has an above-average, loose swing from the right side and currently uses an opposite field approach that limits the amount of impact he has, but at 6-foot-2, 205-pounds, Rivera has lots of strength and could add more weight in the future, with plus raw power down the line not out of the question. Rivera has solid arm strength and good hands at third base and should have no problem handling the position at the next level, though some scouts question his lateral mobility and will want him to stay on top of his conditioning moving forward. Rivera had offseason surgery on his knee, which limited his playing time throughout the spring, and he didn’t show his hitting ability as frequently as he did during the fall and at times last summer. Rivera is committed to Florida.

35. Greg Veliz, RHP, Miami (BA RANK: 359)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

After starting at Miami in parts of his first two seasons, Veliz transitioned to the bullpen this spring, where he’s posted the highest strikeout rate of his career. Through 28 games and 34 innings on the mound, Veliz fanned 62 batters (14.6 per nine) and walked 21 (4.9 per nine) with a 2.35 ERA. Veliz has a quick arm and touches 94-95 at his best, but sits in the low-90s with a slider that could be an above-average offering and a split-change. Veliz has the size—he’s listed at 6-foot-2, 200-pounds—to start, but after succeeding in a reliever role last summer in the Cape Cod League and seeing his stuff tick up in the bullpen this spring, he could be better suited for a reliever role in pro ball. Veliz was draft-eligible last spring, but missed most of the second half of the season with an arm injury.

36. Drew Parrish, LHP, Florida State (BA RANK: 361)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 200 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

A college performer and undersized lefthander, Parrish doesn’t have elite stuff, but has turned in a solid three-year career at Florida State thanks to impressive pitchability and an above-average changeup. Standing at 5-foot-11 and 200 pounds, Parrish throws a below-average fastball that sits in the upper-80s, but his changeup has done enough to keep hitters off of it and help him post a 3.87 career ERA through 45 starts and 269.2 innings—including 14 starts this spring. Parrish has been hit a bit more this spring than usual, and scouts attribute that to added firmness to his changeup, which he corrected during the season. Parrish also has a breaking ball, though it’s a fringe-average pitch with questionable spin. There’s not much upside in Parrish’s profile thanks to his size and velocity, but analytically inclined orgs might want to give him a chance because of his college performance and pitchability.

37. Nathan Hickey, C, Providence HS, Jacksonville (BA RANK: 364)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 205 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

A 6-foot, 205-pound catcher who attends the same school as Tyler Callihan, Hickey is an offensive-first backstop with an above-average hit tool and above-average power. He’s been seen frequently this spring by high-level evaluators thanks to the presence of Callihan and has performed well against all the same pitching. Hickey will be penalized by draft models because he’s very old for the class, with a November, 1999 birthday, and he also has no obvious defensive home with plenty of work to do behind the plate to stick there. A Florida commit, Hickey could improve his stock in Gainesville by continuing to show his offensive promise and either improving his catching defense or finding another position.

38. Nelson Maldonado, OF, Florida (BA RANK: 366)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 5-10 • Wt: 195 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

Maldonado has been a reliable bat in Florida’s lineup for four years, and after going undrafted as a junior in 2018, the 5-foot-10, 195-pound outfielder had a career-best season this spring. With a great understanding of the strike zone and an aggressive approach, Maldonado sacrificed a few walks for more power this season, with a career-low 8.4 percent walk rate through 52 games, but a career-best 10 home runs and a .335/.397/.581 slash line. Maldonado doesn’t have any standout tools, and after being used as a designated hitter with Florida will be limited to left field in pro ball, but his performance this spring could make him a money-saving senior sign who can handle himself with the bat.

39. Pedro Pages, C, Florida Atlantic (BA RANK: 368)
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 234 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

A big-bodied, 6-foot-1, 235-pound catcher, Pages is a high-energy backstop with impressive catch-and-throw skills. This spring Pages threw out 17 of the 25 (68 percent) runners who attempted to steal against him. While Pages’ bat is light, he has hit over .300 in back-to-back seasons and dramatically improved his walk rate this spring, going from a seven percent walk rate in 2018 to 16 percent this spring.

40. Trey Lafleur, OF, Tate HS, Cantonment, Fla. (BA RANK: 370)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 185 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Mississippi

Lafleur is an athletic prep outfielder who is committed to Mississippi. He shows some bat speed and a bit of raw power at the plate with a good run tool. In addition to playing outfield, he has also pitched. He could be a legitimate two-way player for Mississippi, but scouts like his athleticism and offensive upside more as a hitter in pro ball.

41. Hunter Perdue, RHP, State JC of Florida (BA RANK: 398)
Source: JC • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 195 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida State

A 6-foot-3, 195-pound righthander, Perdue has excited scouts with big arm strength and a fastball that’s been up to 97 in the past. This spring he’s been more in the low-90s regularly, and threw just 41.2 innings over seven starts before a forearm injury ended his season. Prior to that, Perdue had shown improvement with a spike-grip curveball that showed some promise, but he struggled to land the pitch for a strike consistently. There is some effort in Perdue’s delivery. That plus his lack of a second pitch to pair with his fastball has most scouts believing he will be a bullpen arm in the future. Perdue is committed to Florida State, and if he can get healthy and improve his secondary development and strike throwing, could further improve his draft stock.

42. Vaughn Grissom, SS, Hagerty HS, Oviedo, Fla. (BA RANK: 409)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 180 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida International

A physical, 6-foot-3, 180-pound shortstop who plays at the same high school as top prospect Riley Greene, Grissom has a solid set of tools, though teams are mixed on how well he’s able to get the most of them. Close to an average though unconventional runner now, most believe that Grissom will be below-average when he fills into a large frame, making him a better fit for third base than shortstop. He has the glovework and enough arm strength for the hot corner, but his bat needs plenty of work. Grissom’s path can flatten out during his swing, and while he makes hard contact he struggled to consistently elevate the ball. Grissom’s tools are intriguing, but each comes with legitimate questions. He’s a Florida International commit.

43. Orlando Ribalta, RHP, Miami Dade JC (BA RANK: 421)
Source: JC • Ht: 6-7 • Wt: 245 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: –

A huge, 6-foot-7, 245-pound righthander, Ribalta is new to pitching, but has been up to 97 mph this spring and scouts believe he has a chance to touch triple-digits. In 39 relief innings with Miami Dade this spring, Ribalta struck out 38 batters (8.8 per nine), but also has well below-average control and walked 23—more than five walks per nine—while posting a 3.92 ERA. Ribalta has a decent slider in there somewhere and occasionally lands one that gets scouts excited, but it’s extremely inconsistent. There’s some upside here given Ribalta’s lack of time spent focusing on pitching, arm strength and body control.

44. Haden Erbe, RHP, Seminole State (Fla.) JC (BA RANK: 447)
Source: JC • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: West Virginia

A 6-foot-4, 200-pound righthander with a big arm, Erbe has plenty of arm strength and was up to 95 mph for scouts last fall, but has spotty command and a below-average slider, though the pitch shows power. This spring, Erbe threw 77.2 innings and struck out 72 batters, but walked 45 and posteda 4.40 ERA. Erbe has a long medical history and has battled injuries in the past, which concerns scouts. He’s committed to West Virginia.

45. Isaac Nunez, SS, Lake Brantley HS, Altamonte Springs, Fla. (BA RANK: 454)
Source: HS • Ht: 5-8 • Wt: 150 • B-T: B-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

Nunez is a prep shortstop who shows off a plus arm but may be a third baseman due to questions surrounding his range. His swing is relatively simple with his lower and upper half working well together and has raw power. Nunez is committed to Florida.

46. Jax Cash, C, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla. (BA RANK: 487)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 205 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: South Carolina

An athletic backstop with a big (6-foot-4, 205-pound) frame and he has an above-average arm, Cash has work to do as far as refining his receiving. The South Carolina signee has some power potential, but his hit tool is also a question.

47. Tyler McKenzie, SS, Benjamin HS, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (BA RANK: 493)
Source: HS • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 160 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Vanderbilt

The younger brother of Indians top pitching prospect Triston McKenzie, Tyler is an athletic, up-the-middle prospect with good running ability and defensive instincts at shortstop. A 6-foot-1, 160-pound righthanded hitter, McKenzie lacks strength now,has a light bat and will also need to improve his arm strength in order to make the plays necessary to stick at shortstop at the next level. After hitting well during Perfect Game’s Jupiter showcase last fall, McKenzie turned heads and got scouts excited, though this spring his offensive performance has been more inconsistent. He has plenty of twitchy athleticism, but due to the question marks around his game and concerns about his swing-and-miss tendencies, McKenzie might wind up on campus at Vanderbilt.

48. Mike Salvatore, INF, Florida State
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 186 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Reds ’15 (19)

A 19th-round pick of the Reds coming out of high school, Salvatore spent two years at Northwest Florida JC, before becoming Florida State’s starting shortstop in 2018. Salvatore is batting .323/.415/.526 with 31 extra-base hits. He is applauded for excellent, gamer-like makeup with contact skills. While he plays shortstop, scouts view him more as a second base or third base due to limited range. He should be a solid senior sign.

49. Mason Studstill, RHP, Florida Gulf Coast
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Indians ’16 (22)

 

50. Mitchell Senger, LHP, Stetson
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-7 • Wt: 240 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

A 6-foot-7, 240-pound lefthander with a funky delivery who relies on deception, Senger had a strong 2018 season behind first-round pick Logan Gilbert in the rotation, but has struggled heavily this spring. Senger was relegated to the bullpen after his first three starts and pitched infrequently after that, throwing 19 innings to a 14.68 ERA. His fastball is a below-average offering in the 86-88 mph range, while his secondaries are fringey as well, though each pitch has played up at times in the past thanks to the many moving parts in his delivery. Senger was an interesting draft prospect after striking out 114 batters and walking 28 in 2018, but his struggles this spring might be too concerning for teams when combined with his below-average stuff.

51. Dan Valerio, UTIL, Southeastern
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

 

52. Jay Hayes, INF/OF, Florida Gulf Coast
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 215 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

 

53. Angel Camacho, 1B, Jacksonville
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

 

54. Jacob Southern, C, Jacksonville
Source: 4YR • Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 215 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

Southern is a good catch-and-throw receiver who has solid actions behind the plate. He is batting .252/.341/.408 through 41 games, while walking less but also striking out less as well.

55. Benjamin Rozenblum, C, Calvary Christian Academy, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida International

 

56. Chad Bryant, RHP, Pensacola State (Fla.) JC
Source: JC • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Athletics ’18 (36)

 

57. Andrew Baker, RHP, Chipola (Fla.) JC
Source: JC • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

 

58. Nolan Hudi, LHP, Calvary Christian HS, Clearwater, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 183 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Texas Christian

 

59. Nelson Alvarez, RHP, South Florida
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 220 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Padres ’18 (23)

 

60. Braden Halladay, RHP, Calvary Christian HS, Clearwater, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 150 • B-T: B-R • Commitment/Drafted: Penn State

 

61. Andrew Baker, LHP/OF, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla.
Source: 4YR • Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 175 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Indians ’16 (36)

 

62. Kyle Jacobsen, OF, Hillsborough (Fla.) JC
Source: JC • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-L • Commitment/Drafted: Brewers ’17 (33)

 

63. Jake Garland, RHP, Jupiter (Fla.) HS
Source: HS • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 225 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Miami

 

64. Harrison Dorsett, RHP, Niceville (Fla.) HS
Source: HS • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 192 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Mississippi

 

65. Jack Jasiak, RHP, Springstead HS, Spring Hill, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 190 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: South Florida

 

66. Logan Keller, SS, Lake Brantley HS, Altamonte Springs, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Alabama

 

67. Hunter Mink, RHP, Palm Harbor University
Source: HS • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 195 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

 

68. Ben Gilbert, LHP, Lake Wales (Fla.) Senior HS
Source: HS • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 165 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Mississippi

 

69. Andrew Roberts, 3B, Trinity Prep HS, Winter Park, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

 

70. Justin Tejeda, OF, Central Pointe Christian Academy, Kissimmee, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 190 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Hillsborough (Fla.) JC

 

71. Carson Palmquist, LHP, Riverdale HS, Fort Myers, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 170 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Miami

 

72. Leon Paulino, OF, Elite Squad Baseball, Pembroke Pines, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-3 • Wt: 200 • B-T: B-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida International

 

73. Ryan Gusto, RHP, Florida Southwestern JC
Source: JC • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 205 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Western Kentucky

 

74. Dallas Beaver, INF/OF, Central Florida
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 219 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

 

75. Ray Alejo, OF, Central Florida
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 170 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

 

76. Brock Edge, OF, Santa Fe (Fla.) JC
Source: JC • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 180 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

 

77. Jarrod Cande, OF/RHP, Santa Fe (Fla.) JC
Source: JC • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 195 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Never Drafted

 

78. Mason Land, SS/2B, Tate HS, Cantonment, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 5-10 • Wt: 155 • B-T: L-R • Commitment/Drafted: Mississippi State

 

79. Edinson Renteria Jr., 3B, Flanagan HS, Pembroke Pines, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 186 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: –

 

80. Garrett Hester, LHP, Pasco HS, Dade City, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 170 • B-T: B-L • Commitment/Drafted: Alabama

 

81. Mykanthony Valdez, 3B, Calvary Christian Academy, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 205 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Miami

 

82. Yordani Carmona, LHP, Monsignor Pace HS, Miami
Source: HS • Ht: 6-2 • Wt: 195 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Miami

 

83. Collin Sullivan, RHP, South Florida
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 203 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Padres ’16 (29)

 

84. Kevin Martin, 1B, St. Brendan HS, Miami
Source: HS • Ht: 6-4 • Wt: 220 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

 

85. Ryan Cabarcas, LHP, American Heritage HS, Plantation, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 5-11 • Wt: 155 • B-T: L-L • Commitment/Drafted: Florida

 

86. Alejandro Torres, RHP, Belen Jesuit Prep, Miami
Source: HS • Ht: 6-1 • Wt: 235 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Florida International

 

87. Brenden Heiss, RHP, Florida Gulf Coast
Source: 4YR • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Cubs ’16 (31)

 

88. Kyle Westfall, OF, IMG Academy, Bradenton, Fla.
Source: HS • Ht: 6-0 • Wt: 170 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Texas Tech

89. Carter Stewart, RHP, Eastern Florida State JC
Source: JC • Ht: 6-6 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R • Commitment/Drafted: Braves ’18 (1)

Ranked No. 9 on the 2018 BA 500, Stewart was the second prep pitcher selected when the Braves took the righthander with the No. 8 overall pick last June. After pitching in the upper 80s and low 90s over the summer prior to his senior season, Stewart began throwing his fastball in the mid-90s during the following spring and also possessed one of the best high school breaking balls evaluators had seen in years. Those two 70-grade pitches made him a top-10 selection in a deep pitching class, but Stewart and the Braves were never able to agree to a signing bonus after the team brought up concerns over an asymptomatic wrist issue that came up during Stewart’s medical. Following the situation, Stewart filed a grievance against the team, which the Braves later won. Now, after pitching at Eastern Florida State JC in 2019, Stewart still has a chance to go in the first round, but he’s unlikely to go as high as he did in 2018. Stewart has shown flashes of the pure stuff he displayed as a high school senior—led by a fastball that gets into the mid-90s and his infamous high-spin rate curveball—but hasn’t shown as much consistency as he did last season. Stewart has also added a slider to his repertoire, but it’s closer to an average offering while his curveball still has plus-plus potential. He occasionally uses a solid changeup as well. Stewart added weight to his lower half this spring, and while that increased his strength, some scouts believed it also hindered his delivery and increased the stiffness in his legs. While he has impressive body control, Stewart is not an elite athlete and teams think he’ll need to have more dedicated offseason workout plans to prevent his stuff or strike-throwing—which is solid—from backing up. Through 12 starts and 68.1 innings with Eastern Florida State, Stewart posted a 1.84 ERA with 96 strikeouts and 23 walks. He possesses all of the necessary talent and pure stuff, but there are many more questions with Stewart in 2019 than there were one year ago. Add on the fact that the Braves found a medical issue they didn’t like and that will surely leave some teams apprehensive this June. In the middle of May, Stewart signed to play with Japan’s Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, which made him inelligible for the draft.