Baseball America expanded their draft prospect list to 400 spots on Wednesday. Besides adding 100 names, they also did some adjusting to their previous rankings based on recent rumors and performances. The 2019 MLB amateur draft will begin on June 3rd. The Pittsburgh Pirates make their first selection in the draft with the 18th overall pick.
With a new list comes a new name in the 18th overall spot, so we take a look at Clemson shortstop Logan Davidson. He has moved up ten spots since the last update from BA. The 21-year-old switch-hitter stands in a 6’3″, 185 pounds. He was drafted out of high school in the 30th round of the 2016 draft by the Philadelphia Phillies.
Davidson gets above average marks for his defense at shortstop, his arm and his speed. He also has average power, but a long swing and some inconsistencies lead to a higher strikeout total than you would like to see. He has also had some issues in the Cape Cod League (wood bats) over two seasons, but has hit well at Clemson. Davidson is currently hitting .288/.401/.575 in 30 games during his junior season. What that means is if he reaches his peak, you’ll get above average defense at a key spot, double digit homers and steals, but he’s not going to get on base at a high rate. He has reached double digits in steals and homers all three seasons at Clemson.
Here’s a recent video from Perfect Game Baseball, which features pregame fielding practice and game action at the plate.
Since his performance with wood bats seems to be the biggest issue, here’s a video from the Cape Cod League
