Dustin Peterson: Prospect Profile for San Diego Padres' 2nd-Round Pick

Player: Dustin Peterson

Drafted by: San Diego Padres (No. 50 Overall)

Position: SS/3B

DOB: 9/10/1994 (Age: 18)

Height/Weight: 6’2”/180 lbs

Bats/Throws: R/R

School: Gilbert (Ariz.) HS

College Commitment: Arizona State

 

Background

The younger brother of D.J. Peterson, the University of New Mexico third baseman who went No. 12 in the first round, Dustin is a better athlete and arguably the more projectable player long-term.

Although he’s played shortstop for his high school team, there’s reasonable concern Dustin will be forced to move off the position down the line. That being said, the 6’2”, 180-pounder’s offensive potential is what will ultimately attract teams this June, as both brothers have a legitimate chance to have their names called on Day 1 of the draft.

 

Full Scouting Report

Note: Numerical scores are on the conventional 80-point scouting scale, with the current score first and projected score second.

Hitting: 40/55

Quick, strong hands; above-average bat speed; direct swing with steady bat path through zone; keeps bat head in zone for extended period of time; comfortable using the entire field; mature approach for high school player; tracks the ball deep; should hit for average at next level.

Power: 40/50

Present strength at 6’2”, 180 pounds; creates nice point of contact; gets extension thought he ball; drives ball with consistent backspin carry; good pop the other way; above-average power potential; will need to improve frequency if he’s forced to move to a corner.

Speed: 50/50

Average runner; quick feet and excellent instincts make speed play up; thicker build could cost him a step as he develops.

 

Defense: 45/55

Currently a shortstop but will need to move off the position as a professional; decent range despite lack of speed; good first step; soft hands and glove; smooth hands; body control.

Arm: 50/50

Fringy arm strength; serviceable at shortstop; clean arm stroke; gets rid of the ball quickly and generates momentum toward target; arm will need to get stronger for left side of the infield at the next level.

MLB Player Comparison: Ian Desmond

 

Projection: Above-average third baseman on second-division team.

MLB ETA: 2016

Chances of Signing: 75%