2012 MLB Draft Projections: Byron Buxton and Other Future All-Stars

Every team in the major leagues is looking for new and exciting talent. Here are three players that fit the bill.

Future all stars are difficult to predict in baseball, because no one can predict how they're going to develop mentally. But these young men have scouts excited about what they have already shown and what they can still become.

Let's start with the most exciting prospect I've seen in the past three months.

Byron Buxton, OF, 18 years old, 6'2", 180 pounds

Buxton is easily the most fluid athlete I've watched in a few years on a baseball field. He simply glides to the ball and has a high ceiling as an outfielder. He has a strong, accurate arm with a very quick release.

At the plate, he is more of a line-drive hitter right now. But with his frame, he will easily fill out to a strong, 220-pound, legitimate power threat.

Buxton's greatest tools right now are his speed and throwing arm. If he continues to improve in other aspects, he could be a special player.

Mark Appel, SP, 20 years old, 6'4", 195 pounds

Appel attended Stanford for three years, and he has improved greatly since graduating from high school. He is considered the best pitching prospect and the best overall prospect by many.

He already has three reliable pitches that he throws with movement and command.

The highlight of his arsenal is a mid-90s fastball. But don't sleep on his circle changeup and slider. Appel may be the Astros' selection at No. 1 overall if they choose to select a pitcher.

Albert Almora, OF, 18 years old, 6'2", 180 pounds

Almora has the tools to be a solid defensive center fielder. But his ceiling is also high as a hitter. His frame will fill out—possibly even more powerful than Buxton's—and he will have power.

Almora has notable physical talents, but his intangibles may be even more attractive. He has a wealth of experience playing for USA baseball, and he has great passion for the game.

In short—he is a baseball player through and through. This will lead teams to believe there is a high probability that he maximizes his talents.

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