2012 MLB Draft Results: Grading Biggest Reaches of Round 1

It's always difficult to predict the MLB draft because most of the prospects are still raw talents that will need several years of seasoning before a final judgment can be made. So the first round is about maximizing value more than anything else.

Let's take a look at three teams that didn't do that on Monday by reaching for prospects. It puts more pressure on those players to live up to the hype since they were drafted early, making the expectations higher than they would have been later in the round or draft.

No. 11 Oakland Athletics: Addison Russell

Russell has spent the majority of his baseball career at shortstop, but his size suggests third base will be a better fit for him over the long haul. While he does have some power, there are still plenty of other question marks about his game.

He still hasn't shown the ability to hit off-speed pitches consistently, which is always a concern for a hitter whose best attribute is power. As he makes his way through the system, he'll start seeing more and more breaking balls to test him.

Russell also doesn't have elite speed and isn't a terrific defender, either. So the Athletics made the pick based on his power potential with hopes the rest of his game will eventually catch up. That's a big risk to take with the 11th pick.

Grade: D+

No. 14 Cincinnati Reds: Nick Travieso

Travieso was taken by the Reds when there was still several more polished college pitchers left on the board, so they must have really liked his arm. He does have good size, but still has a ways to go before reaching his potential.

His best pitch right now is his slider, which will eventually become his out pitch. Beyond that he only has an average fastball and his changeup needs a lot of work before it can become a significant part of his arsenal.

The high school star also needs to improve his control in order to become more consistent. He faces a long journey to the majors if he remains a starter. A team on the rise like the Reds would have been better off taking a pitcher further along in his development.

Grade: C-

No. 15 Cleveland Indians: Tyler Naquin

Previously drafted three years ago by the Baltimore Orioles, Naquin generated a lot more hype this time around and was able to sneak into the top half of Round 1 with a late charge. Players who move up draft boards late are always cause for concern.

The first thing that stands out about Naquin is his defense. He has a great arm and above average range. The Texas A&M product hasn't really shown enough at the plate to warrant going this high, however. He lacks the power stroke necessary to hold down a corner outfield spot.

He will have several years in the minor leagues to develop more pop, but if it never develops it's difficult to see him ever becoming anything more than a depth outfielder. Teams are looking for more than that with high picks.

Grade: C-