Brandon Drury: Scouting Profile of Prospect Reportedly Dealt for Justin Upton

The Arizona Diamondbacks netted infielder Brandon Drury as a result of the Justin Upton deal to the Atlanta Braves, as reported by CBS Sports' Jon Heyman:

"

Brandon drury also goes to #dbacks in 7 player trade. #upton

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) January 24, 2013"

Baseball America's JJ Cooper also shared this news:

"

Yes, Spruil (#9) was only prospect Braves traded in top 10. Also traded Ahmed (#11), Drury (#27) from BA Prospect Handbook's Top 30.

— JJ Cooper (@jjcoop36) January 24, 2013"

Drury, a third baseman from Grants Pass, Ore., was selected by Atlanta in the 2010 draft’s 13th round. He has certainly improved his stock since joining the Braves organization, and the Diamondbacks have to like what they see out of the young talent. 

Former MLB pitcher Don Olson chimed in on Drury’s potential:

"

I think from a tool standpoint Brandon Drury and Nick Ahmed bring a lot to the table.If Diamondbacks can bring it out, solid regulars.

— Don Olsen (@Olsen_Don) January 24, 2013"

At only 20 years old, there’s a lot to like about Drury in the early stages of his baseball life. In 2011, he hit .347 with 51 RBI and a .891 OPS as a member of the Danville Braves, Atlanta’s Class-A affiliate. He was named “Appy” League MVP for his 2011 performance.

Drury had a down year this past season, which likely lowered his trade value to be a part of this Upton deal. He only hit .229/.270/.333.

There was one silver lining out of Drury’s rough 2012, though: He had a penchant for not being able to draw walks his first two seasons, but he doubled that total in 2012 with 20 walks.

Defensively he doesn't have the smoothest glove, but he has turned himself into a worthy fielder on the corner.

Nevertheless, Drury’s hitting regression renders him far from hitting a major league field to hit in the immediate future.

Drury has time on his side to change his woes with the bat. If he can get back to crushing the ball like in 2011, Arizona will have found itself an ace in the hole with this Upton deal.