Richie Shaffer to Rays: Video Highlights, Scouting Report and Analysis

Position: 3B

Height/Weight: 6’3”/205 lbs

Bats/Throws: R/R

DOB: 3/15/1991

College: Clemson

Year: JR

A strong season both at the plate and at third has Shaffer pegged as one of the top position prospects in the 2012 draft class. His hit tool profiles as one of the most consistent in the draft and should continue to improve; this should be lethal when paired with his present power. A right-handed hitter, Shaffer has quick wrists that yields impressive bat speed, and more importantly, he knows how to manipulate counts in his favor.

His defense at third base has vastly improved, and his bat is much more valuable there than at first base. He moves well in all directions at the hot corner, and takes an instinctual first step. However, his 60-grade arm may be the best of his defensive tools, as he has a clean arm stroke that delivers crisp, accurate throws.

His overall package has provoked comparisons to Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, though he may not have as high a ceiling. Still, he’s extremely projectable at the major league level and could be ready to contribute by late 2014.

Pick Analysis:

The Rays grabbed Shaffer at No. 25 overall, about where Baseball Prospectus expected—BP had him at No. 23.

Analysts on MLB Network talked about Shaffer's versatility allowing him to play first base or right field, but for now he's a third baseman. 

Having just turned 21, he could be up in the big leagues fairly soon. For now, the Rays have Evan Longoria at third, once he's back from injury. So they're in no rush to bring up Shaffer.