2013 MLB Mock Draft: Bleacher Report's 1st-Round Projection Battle | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors | Bleacher Report

Pick  Team  Rosenbaum  Wells
1  Houston Astros  Jonathan Gray  Jonathan Gray
Pick Analysis: Gray's ascent this season will be capped off by being the No. 1 pick in the 2013 draft. Not only does he offer the Astros similar upside to Mark Appel, the other player seriously in the mix for the top pick, but he could also come a little cheaper than the Stanford right-hander and allow them to allocate more money for higher-upside, tougher-sign players in the later rounds. Let's not forget Gray's ability to touch triple digits with a knockout slider and workhorse frame.—Wells
2  Chicago Cubs  Mark Appel  Mark Appel
Pick Analysis: As everyone knows by now, the Cubs will take either Gray or Appel with the second overall pick, depending on which player is selected by the Astros at 1-1. In reality, the Cubs are likely hoping that the Astros and Gray cut a deal, as they’ve had their eye on Appel for the last year despite his presumed high price tag as a Scott Boras client.—Rosenbaum
3  Colorado Rockies  Kris Bryant  Kris Bryant
Pick Analysis: Conventional thinking would say that the Rockies need to go after pitching, but the MLB draft isn't like a lot of other drafts. Teams should look for the best player available. Bryant does have some questions about his hit tool, but there is no denying the huge power numbers he has put up at San Diego and how well it translates to the big leagues. In an era where home run numbers are down significantly, Bryant is a luxury at this spot.—Wells
4  Minnesota Twins  Kohl Stewart  Kohl Stewart
Pick Analysis: After adding a host of power arms since last June, including Alex Meyer, Trevor May and J.O. Berrios, Stewart would give the Twins another high-ceiling pitching prospect and fits the mold of their quickly improving farm system. Plus, at this point, the 6’3”, 190-pound right-hander is arguably the best player available.—Rosenbaum
5  Cleveland Indians  Colin Moran  Colin Moran
Pick Analysis: With the exception of Francisco Lindor two years ago, who was lauded for his polish and advanced skills, Cleveland usually plays things (relatively) safe by going after polished college players. Moran has the most advanced hit tool in this class, an incredible eye at the plate and plus raw power. He also has enough tools—plus arm strength, good glove—to stick at third base. He could move very quickly after signing.—Wells
6  Miami Marlins  Braden Shipley  D.J. Peterson
Pick Analysis: The Marlins don't seem likely to go after one of the top high school players and pay him the money he will look for, so a college player seems to be the smart play. I go with D.J. Peterson, who will end up in the outfield and has a solid hit tool with above-average power but not much in the way of ceiling. He is more of a safe, low-risk investment for the Marlins than anything.—Wells
 Even though they selected a college arm last June (Andrew Heaney), Shipley has considerably more upside than the average college pitching prospect. The cousin of former NFL wide receiver Jordan Shipley, the right-hander is an outstanding athlete with little mileage on his arm and the makings of three above-average-to-plus offerings.—Rosenbaum
7  Boston Red Sox  Clint Frazier  Clint Frazier
Pick Analysis: The Red Sox will be forced to wait and see which top-10 prospect is still available with the No. 7 pick, as they have their eye on several different players. They’ve rarely have had an opportunity to draft this high, as their last top-10 pick came in 2003. They need to target the best player on the board, and I think that is Frazier.
8  Kansas City Royals  D.J. Peterson  Braden Shipley
Pick Analysis: Kansas City is not opposed to drafting high-ceiling talent (like Frazier or Austin Meadows), but it is clear that the focus of this franchise is finding pitching. We saw it with the acquisition of James Shields and drafting Kyle Zimmer in the last 12 months. Shipley has a plus fastball-curveball combination and continues to improve his command and feel.—Wells
 After dealing Wil Myers, their top offensive prospect, during the offseason, the Royals have asserted themselves as a “win-now” organization. Therefore, adding Peterson, who’s widely regarded as having one of the top bats in the class, could give them an impact hitter capable of contributing by the 2015 season.—Rosenbaum
9  Pittsburgh Pirates*  Reese McGuire  Trey Ball
Pick Analysis: The Pirates might play things safe since this pick is unprotected after failing to sign Mark Appel last year, so I can see a player like McGuire going here. However, Ball is one of the most intriguing players in this draft for his upside as a hitter or pitcher. Since he is left-handed and can already touch 93, expect him to be drafted and developed as a pitcher.—Wells
 Although the Pirates selected a catcher (Wyatt Mathisen) with their first-round pick in 2012, he’s viewed as more of a work in progress behind the plate. So, don’t be surprised if they double down and cut a cost-saving deal with McGuire this year, as he’s an outstanding defender and lock to stay behind the plate.—Rosenbaum
10  Toronto Blue Jays  Austin Meadows  Austin Meadows
Pick Analysis: No player in this class has a ceiling as high as Austin Meadows, the toolsy, albeit raw Georgia outfielder. He has an effortless—it can look almost lackadaisical—swing with plus speed, power and defense in center field. The Blue Jays have been known to grab the best available talent, especially in the early rounds. Don't expect that trend to change this year.—Wells
11  New York Mets  Dominic Smith  Hunter Renfroe
Pick Analysis: The Mets may not want to wait as long as it will take Smith, who is a (terrific) first base-only prospect, to get to the big leagues, especially considering the state of their outfield right now. Renfroe and his exciting all-around skills, including plus power, speed, defense and arm strength, will be the choice.—Wells
 Although the Mets are desperately in need of an impact bat in the outfield, they may be forced to make an exception if Smith is still on the board. He may be only drafted to play first base, but he’s a left-handed player who should hit for both average and power in the big leagues.—Rosenbaum
12  Seattle Mariners  Ryne Stanek  Ryne Stanek
Pick Analysis: Regarded as one of the top draft prospects headed into the spring, Stanek’s stock has a taken a minor hit this season due to decreased velocity, fringy command and his ongoing inability to miss bats despite flashing two plus pitches. That being said, it’s difficult to envision him not going within the first half of the first round, and 12thoverall may mark his floor in this year’s weak draft class.—Rosenbaum
13  San Diego Padres  Trey Ball  Ian Clarkin
Pick Analysis: The pitching-rich Padres really don't lose in either scenario here. If Ball slides to them, he would be an excellent choice for obvious reasons. Clarkin is also a left-hander who attends high school in the San Diego area who can already run his fastball up to 93 with a sharp curveball.—Wells
 Just as they did last year with Max Fried, the Padres are likely to make a stab at a high-upside prep player and will have their pick of the litter here just outside the top 10. Ball is the definition of a projectable prospect, both in the outfield and on the mound, and could be a steal if he makes it this far.—Rosenbaum
14  Pittsburgh Pirates  Sean Manaea  Sean Manaea
Pick Analysis: It is really hard to figure out where Manaea might go in this draft. He is a left-hander who has been clocked up to 96 in the past with a plus slider. But his peak came during the Cape Cod season in the summer of 2012. This spring has been different, as he is throwing more in the 91-93 range with two solid-average off-speed pitches. Lefties with above-average velocity, three pitches and pitchability don't usually last this long, so the Pirates would be wise to add him to their stable of arms.—Wells
15  Arizona Diamondbacks  Hunter Renfroe  J.P. Crawford
Pick Analysis: With Arizona's new philosophy at the big league level, you have to wonder what the drafting crew will look for. Crawford is one of the few true shortstops in this class with a solid hit tool, plus range and very good footwork.—Wells
 With a farm system that's already loaded at nearly every position, and especially on the mound, the Diamondbacks are in a great spot to land one of the better college bats in the draft. If D.J. Peterson is off the board, and chances are that he will be, Renfroe is a solid pick here considering he's just now tapping into his big-time potential—Rosenbaum
16  Philadelphia Phillies  J.P. Crawford  Tim Anderson
Pick Analysis: Anderson fits Philadelphia's bill for athletic players very well. He has a good chance to stick at shortstop and become a high-average, line-drive hitter with plus speed.—Wells
 Although the Phillies house speedster Roman Quinn in the low minors, there's a decent chance that he'll eventually be moved to either second base or center field. Like the Red Sox, the Phillies have an opportunity to nab a potential impact player and could get the top shortstop in the class, J.P. Crawford-Rosenbaum
17  Chicago White Sox  Austin Wilson  Austin Wilson
Pick Analysis: Although he missed a portion of the season after suffering a right elbow (stress reaction) injury in Stanford’s opening series against Rice, it seemingly never altered Wilson’s perception as a Day 1 talent. And after deviating from their normal draft strategy in 2012 with the selection of Courtney Hawkins, expect the South Siders to take a safer route this June without sacrificing upside.—Rosenbaum
18  Los Angeles Dodgers  Ian Clarkin  Hunter Harvey
Pick Analysis: Since 2003, the Dodgers have taken a high school pitcher in five of the seven years they have had a first-round pick (not including the supplemental round), and last year, they took a high school position player. Harvey certainly fits their model as a right-hander with present velocity—usually in the low 90s—and a lot of projection.—Wells
 After selecting a pitcher in the first round from 2006-2011, the Dodgers finally took a different approach last year when they selected Corey Seager 18th overall. However, with the amount of pitching prospects expected to still be on the board in the mid-first round this year, expect them to target one of the more projectable prep arms.—Rosenbaum
19  St. Louis Cardinals  Alex Gonzalez  Alex Gonzalez
Pick Analysis: The Cardinals could opt for a higher-ceiling high school arm at this spot, but the risk might be too great, especially considering they have another pick later in the round. Instead, they can add Alex Gonzalez, who has been moving up in this class thanks to his four-pitch mix, including a very good cutter that induces a ton of soft contact and polish. Not that St. Louis is hurting for young pitching right now, but one more solid arm can't hurt.—Wells
20  Detroit Tigers  Aaron Judge  Chris Anderson
Pick Analysis: The Tigers' philosophy is usually to go after a hard-throwing right-hander in the first round. Why change the formula right now? Especially with Anderson, who has shown plus-plus velocity and a very good breaking ball.—Wells
 In need of advanced, impact talent due to their lackluster farm system, the Tigers are a safe bet to target a player whom they believe can reach the majors quickly and doesn't come with a high price tag. Although Judge does have his weaknesses, the 6’7”, 255-pound outfielder has huge upside (literally) and could be a steal this late in a weak-hitting draft class.—Rosenbaum
21  Tampa Bay Rays  Devin Williams  Devin Williams
Pick Analysis: The consensus seems to be that Williams will be selected in the second half of the first round, though nobody is exactly sure where. The ultra-projectable right-hander has been heavily scouted by numerous teams drafting within that range, and in my opinion, he has all the makings of the next young, impact pitching prospect in the Rays’ system.—Rosenbaum
22  Baltimore Orioles  Chris Anderson  Aaron Judge
Pick Analysis: Judge is one of the few players in this draft with plus-plus power projection, so there is a strong chance he doesn't even make it to this spot. But his huge strike zone—Judge is listed at 6'7"—and inability to drive the ball pitched down in the zone do leave questions about his hit tool.—Wells
 Although the Orioles may ultimately target a premium position player, it’s hard to argue with their recent success in drafting Dylan Bundy (2011) and Kevin Gausman (2012). Anderson’s stock has fallen a bit this spring, but he still has the size and stuff to project as a solid No. 3 starter behind the aforementioned right-handers.—Rosenbaum
23  Texas Rangers  Hunter Harvey  Travis Demeritte
Pick Analysis: The Rangers are another team that goes after tools and projection every single time. Demeritte is going to take a long time before sniffing the big leagues. He is incredibly raw but does have plus power potential and a strong arm for third base.—Wells
 Hunter Harvey is exactly the type of young pitching prospect that the Rangers tend to covet. With a highly projectable frame and a fastball that’s reached the mid-to-upper 90s this spring, there’s a decent chance he may not make it this far. But if he does, expect the Rangers to shell out some big bucks to sign him.—Rosenbaum
24  Oakland Athletics  Tim Anderson  Matt Krook
Pick Analysis: Drafting Addison Russell last year could be the start of a new philosophy for Oakland, which used to just go after college players with a high floor early. Krook would fit the new mold, as a left-hander with above-average present velocity, a plus curveball and projection.—Wells
 Although the A’s netted a great prospect last June in Addison Russell, a team can never have too many high-ceiling up-the-middle prospects in its system. Anderson has the athleticism and tools to stick at shortstop and could conceivably move to center field down the road.—Rosenbaum
25  San Francisco Giants  Phil Bickford  Rob Kaminsky
Pick Analysis: Kaminsky lacks the projection you want in a typical high school pitcher, but he is very advanced for his age, showing very good control and a solid three-pitch mix. Given the Giants' success at developing arms, you would have to trust they will get the most out of Kaminsky.—Wells
 It’s easy to envision the Giants selecting a top-notch pitching prospect because, well, that’s what they do. But after selecting college right-hander Chris Stratton last June, the organization could stand to go younger with this year’s pick, meaning that the hard-throwing Bickford could be their guy if he’s still on the board.—Rosenbaum
26  New York Yankees  Rob Kaminsky  Eric Jagielo
Pick Analysis: The Yankees can do any number of things in the first round with three picks. Jagielo is a safe option at this spot, both because he won't command a huge portion of the signing bonus and he's an average third baseman with solid hitting skills and plus power.—Wells
 The Yankees have been linked to Kaminsky all spring, a local product (New Jersey) with a mature arsenal and present pitchability. Even if they don’t take him here, expect the Bronx Bombers to target the left-hander with one of their picks in the first round.—Rosenbaum
27  Cincinnati Reds  Kyle Serrano  Kyle Serrano
Pick Analysis: A high school right-hander with a fastball that sits in the low 90s thanks to tremendous arm speed and a knee-buckling curveball, Serrano is squarely in the first-round mix. He slides down a bit because there are questions about whether he will honor his commitment to the University of Tennessee, where his father, Dave Serrano, is the head coach. He also doesn't offer much physical projection at 6'0", 185 pounds, so a drafting team will be banking on the present stuff, which is very good, and future command.—Wells
28  St. Louis Cardinals*  Cord Sandberg  Billy McKinney
Pick Analysis: McKinney would be a very good value pick at this spot. He doesn't offer much in the way of defense as a fringy left fielder, but he has a beautiful left-handed swing and projects to be a plus hitter with above-average home run power.—Wells
 After landing two advanced college players (Michael Wacha, James Ramsey) in the first round last June, the Cardinals would benefit from selecting a high school player right here, as they need to begin re-stocking their lower-level affiliates. The only question is whether they’ll be able to offer Sandberg enough for him to pass on his dual-sport (quarterback) commitment to Mississippi State.—Rosenbaum
29  Tampa Bay Rays*  Jon Denney  Hunter Green
Pick Analysis: The Rays, more often than not, will shoot for ceiling in the first round. Green has a projectable 6'3" frame, already sits in the low 90s with his fastball and has the potential for two average off-speed pitches. Considering how slow Tampa Bay plays things with its pitchers, as well as the depth already in the big leagues, the team can afford to wait as long as it has to for Green to develop.—Wells
 Denney’s stock has slipped this spring due to his inconsistent performance on both sides of the ball, but he’s still showcased the type of loud tools that usually intrigue the Rays.—Rosenbaum
30  Texas Rangers*  Travis Demeritte  Dominic Smith
Pick Analysis: Smith is one of the top hitters in this draft class. He has a great swing from the left side, already showing plus power in games. He is limited to first base, but he is a tremendous defender at the position with soft hands and a plus throwing arm that he won't get to show off very often.—Wells
 In each of the last four drafts the Rangers have targeted the top high school prospect on the board, and expect this year to be no exception. If Demeritte, who's quietly emerged as one of the more exciting players in the class, is still on the board, expect the Rangers to be all over him.-Rosenbaum
31  Atlanta Braves*  Marco Gonzales  Marco Gonzales
Pick Analysis: After straying from the usual draft strategy last season when they selected local prep right-hander Lucas Sims with the 21st overall pick, expect the Braves to target a pitchability, high-floor arm, such as Gonzales, capable of a quick but steady ascension through their system.—Rosenbaum
32  New York Yankees*  Billy McKinney  Reese McGuire
Pick Analysis: Here is where the Yankees can play around with some things. McGuire is a potential top-10-15 pick thanks to the strong possibility he will stay behind the plate, plus throwing arm and good blocking/receiving skills. He will have to prove he can hit, however.—Wells
 Assuming that the Yankees net a top pitching prospect at No. 26 overall, this will be the organization’s first chance to target an impact bat. Although he’s a younger hitter and lacks defensive projection, McKinney’s bat would stand out in their system.—Rosenbaum
33  New York Yankees*  Eric Jagielo  Dustin Peterson
Pick Analysis: Peterson has the makings of an average second baseman at the next level. He has a good swing with above-average bat speed. He is raw and will need to adjust to quality off-speed stuff, but his tools are very exciting and he's a good find at the end of the first round.—Wells
 If the Yankees do in fact go with high school players with each of their first two picks, expect them to hedge against their investment with an impact college bat such as Jagielo, who offers plus power from the left side of the plate.—Rosenbaum
Pick	Team	Rosenbaum	Wells
1	Houston Astros	Jonathan Gray	Jonathan Gray
Pick Analysis: Gray's ascent this season will be capped off by being the No. 1 pick in the 2013 draft. Not only does he offer the Astros similar upside to Mark Appel, the other player seriously in the mix for the top pick, but he could also come a little cheaper than the Stanford right-hander and allow them to allocate more money for higher-upside, tougher-sign players in the later rounds. Let's not forget Gray's ability to touch triple digits with a knockout slider and workhorse frame.—Wells
2	Chicago Cubs	Mark Appel	Mark Appel
Pick Analysis: As everyone knows by now, the Cubs will take either Gray or Appel with the second overall pick, depending on which player is selected by the Astros at 1-1. In reality, the Cubs are likely hoping that the Astros and Gray cut a deal, as they’ve had their eye on Appel for the last year despite his presumed high price tag as a Scott Boras client.—Rosenbaum
3	Colorado Rockies	Kris Bryant	Kris Bryant
Pick Analysis: Conventional thinking would say that the Rockies need to go after pitching, but the MLB draft isn't like a lot of other drafts. Teams should look for the best player available. Bryant does have some questions about his hit tool, but there is no denying the huge power numbers he has put up at San Diego and how well it translates to the big leagues. In an era where home run numbers are down significantly, Bryant is a luxury at this spot.—Wells
4	Minnesota Twins	Kohl Stewart	Kohl Stewart
Pick Analysis: After adding a host of power arms since last June, including Alex Meyer, Trevor May and J.O. Berrios, Stewart would give the Twins another high-ceiling pitching prospect and fits the mold of their quickly improving farm system. Plus, at this point, the 6’3”, 190-pound right-hander is arguably the best player available.—Rosenbaum
5	Cleveland Indians	Colin Moran	Colin Moran
Pick Analysis: With the exception of Francisco Lindor two years ago, who was lauded for his polish and advanced skills, Cleveland usually plays things (relatively) safe by going after polished college players. Moran has the most advanced hit tool in this class, an incredible eye at the plate and plus raw power. He also has enough tools—plus arm strength, good glove—to stick at third base. He could move very quickly after signing.—Wells
6	Miami Marlins	Braden Shipley	D.J. Peterson
Pick Analysis: The Marlins don't seem likely to go after one of the top high school players and pay him the money he will look for, so a college player seems to be the smart play. I go with D.J. Peterson, who will end up in the outfield and has a solid hit tool with above-average power but not much in the way of ceiling. He is more of a safe, low-risk investment for the Marlins than anything.—Wells Even though they selected a college arm last June (Andrew Heaney), Shipley has considerably more upside than the average college pitching prospect. The cousin of former NFL wide receiver Jordan Shipley, the right-hander is an outstanding athlete with little mileage on his arm and the makings of three above-average-to-plus offerings.—Rosenbaum
7	Boston Red Sox	Clint Frazier	Clint Frazier
Pick Analysis: The Red Sox will be forced to wait and see which top-10 prospect is still available with the No. 7 pick, as they have their eye on several different players. They’ve rarely have had an opportunity to draft this high, as their last top-10 pick came in 2003. They need to target the best player on the board, and I think that is Frazier.
8	Kansas City Royals	D.J. Peterson	Braden Shipley
Pick Analysis: Kansas City is not opposed to drafting high-ceiling talent (like Frazier or Austin Meadows), but it is clear that the focus of this franchise is finding pitching. We saw it with the acquisition of James Shields and drafting Kyle Zimmer in the last 12 months. Shipley has a plus fastball-curveball combination and continues to improve his command and feel.—Wells After dealing Wil Myers, their top offensive prospect, during the offseason, the Royals have asserted themselves as a “win-now” organization. Therefore, adding Peterson, who’s widely regarded as having one of the top bats in the class, could give them an impact hitter capable of contributing by the 2015 season.—Rosenbaum
9	Pittsburgh Pirates*	Reese McGuire	Trey Ball
Pick Analysis: The Pirates might play things safe since this pick is unprotected after failing to sign Mark Appel last year, so I can see a player like McGuire going here. However, Ball is one of the most intriguing players in this draft for his upside as a hitter or pitcher. Since he is left-handed and can already touch 93, expect him to be drafted and developed as a pitcher.—Wells Although the Pirates selected a catcher (Wyatt Mathisen) with their first-round pick in 2012, he’s viewed as more of a work in progress behind the plate. So, don’t be surprised if they double down and cut a cost-saving deal with McGuire this year, as he’s an outstanding defender and lock to stay behind the plate.—Rosenbaum
10	Toronto Blue Jays	Austin Meadows	Austin Meadows
Pick Analysis: No player in this class has a ceiling as high as Austin Meadows, the toolsy, albeit raw Georgia outfielder. He has an effortless—it can look almost lackadaisical—swing with plus speed, power and defense in center field. The Blue Jays have been known to grab the best available talent, especially in the early rounds. Don't expect that trend to change this year.—Wells
11	New York Mets	Dominic Smith	Hunter Renfroe
Pick Analysis: The Mets may not want to wait as long as it will take Smith, who is a (terrific) first base-only prospect, to get to the big leagues, especially considering the state of their outfield right now. Renfroe and his exciting all-around skills, including plus power, speed, defense and arm strength, will be the choice.—Wells Although the Mets are desperately in need of an impact bat in the outfield, they may be forced to make an exception if Smith is still on the board. He may be only drafted to play first base, but he’s a left-handed player who should hit for both average and power in the big leagues.—Rosenbaum
12	Seattle Mariners	Ryne Stanek	Ryne Stanek
Pick Analysis: Regarded as one of the top draft prospects headed into the spring, Stanek’s stock has a taken a minor hit this season due to decreased velocity, fringy command and his ongoing inability to miss bats despite flashing two plus pitches. That being said, it’s difficult to envision him not going within the first half of the first round, and 12thoverall may mark his floor in this year’s weak draft class.—Rosenbaum
13	San Diego Padres	Trey Ball	Ian Clarkin
Pick Analysis: The pitching-rich Padres really don't lose in either scenario here. If Ball slides to them, he would be an excellent choice for obvious reasons. Clarkin is also a left-hander who attends high school in the San Diego area who can already run his fastball up to 93 with a sharp curveball.—Wells Just as they did last year with Max Fried, the Padres are likely to make a stab at a high-upside prep player and will have their pick of the litter here just outside the top 10. Ball is the definition of a projectable prospect, both in the outfield and on the mound, and could be a steal if he makes it this far.—Rosenbaum
14	Pittsburgh Pirates	Sean Manaea	Sean Manaea
Pick Analysis: It is really hard to figure out where Manaea might go in this draft. He is a left-hander who has been clocked up to 96 in the past with a plus slider. But his peak came during the Cape Cod season in the summer of 2012. This spring has been different, as he is throwing more in the 91-93 range with two solid-average off-speed pitches. Lefties with above-average velocity, three pitches and pitchability don't usually last this long, so the Pirates would be wise to add him to their stable of arms.—Wells
15	Arizona Diamondbacks	Hunter Renfroe	J.P. Crawford
Pick Analysis: With Arizona's new philosophy at the big league level, you have to wonder what the drafting crew will look for. Crawford is one of the few true shortstops in this class with a solid hit tool, plus range and very good footwork.—Wells With a farm system that's already loaded at nearly every position, and especially on the mound, the Diamondbacks are in a great spot to land one of the better college bats in the draft. If D.J. Peterson is off the board, and chances are that he will be, Renfroe is a solid pick here considering he's just now tapping into his big-time potential—Rosenbaum
16	Philadelphia Phillies	J.P. Crawford	Tim Anderson
Pick Analysis: Anderson fits Philadelphia's bill for athletic players very well. He has a good chance to stick at shortstop and become a high-average, line-drive hitter with plus speed.—Wells Although the Phillies house speedster Roman Quinn in the low minors, there's a decent chance that he'll eventually be moved to either second base or center field. Like the Red Sox, the Phillies have an opportunity to nab a potential impact player and could get the top shortstop in the class, J.P. Crawford-Rosenbaum
17	Chicago White Sox	Austin Wilson	Austin Wilson
Pick Analysis: Although he missed a portion of the season after suffering a right elbow (stress reaction) injury in Stanford’s opening series against Rice, it seemingly never altered Wilson’s perception as a Day 1 talent. And after deviating from their normal draft strategy in 2012 with the selection of Courtney Hawkins, expect the South Siders to take a safer route this June without sacrificing upside.—Rosenbaum
18	Los Angeles Dodgers	Ian Clarkin	Hunter Harvey
Pick Analysis: Since 2003, the Dodgers have taken a high school pitcher in five of the seven years they have had a first-round pick (not including the supplemental round), and last year, they took a high school position player. Harvey certainly fits their model as a right-hander with present velocity—usually in the low 90s—and a lot of projection.—Wells After selecting a pitcher in the first round from 2006-2011, the Dodgers finally took a different approach last year when they selected Corey Seager 18th overall. However, with the amount of pitching prospects expected to still be on the board in the mid-first round this year, expect them to target one of the more projectable prep arms.—Rosenbaum
19	St. Louis Cardinals	Alex Gonzalez	Alex Gonzalez
Pick Analysis: The Cardinals could opt for a higher-ceiling high school arm at this spot, but the risk might be too great, especially considering they have another pick later in the round. Instead, they can add Alex Gonzalez, who has been moving up in this class thanks to his four-pitch mix, including a very good cutter that induces a ton of soft contact and polish. Not that St. Louis is hurting for young pitching right now, but one more solid arm can't hurt.—Wells
20	Detroit Tigers	Aaron Judge	Chris Anderson
Pick Analysis: The Tigers' philosophy is usually to go after a hard-throwing right-hander in the first round. Why change the formula right now? Especially with Anderson, who has shown plus-plus velocity and a very good breaking ball.—Wells In need of advanced, impact talent due to their lackluster farm system, the Tigers are a safe bet to target a player whom they believe can reach the majors quickly and doesn't come with a high price tag. Although Judge does have his weaknesses, the 6’7”, 255-pound outfielder has huge upside (literally) and could be a steal this late in a weak-hitting draft class.—Rosenbaum
21	Tampa Bay Rays	Devin Williams	Devin Williams
Pick Analysis: The consensus seems to be that Williams will be selected in the second half of the first round, though nobody is exactly sure where. The ultra-projectable right-hander has been heavily scouted by numerous teams drafting within that range, and in my opinion, he has all the makings of the next young, impact pitching prospect in the Rays’ system.—Rosenbaum
22	Baltimore Orioles	Chris Anderson	Aaron Judge
Pick Analysis: Judge is one of the few players in this draft with plus-plus power projection, so there is a strong chance he doesn't even make it to this spot. But his huge strike zone—Judge is listed at 6'7"—and inability to drive the ball pitched down in the zone do leave questions about his hit tool.—Wells Although the Orioles may ultimately target a premium position player, it’s hard to argue with their recent success in drafting Dylan Bundy (2011) and Kevin Gausman (2012). Anderson’s stock has fallen a bit this spring, but he still has the size and stuff to project as a solid No. 3 starter behind the aforementioned right-handers.—Rosenbaum
23	Texas Rangers	Hunter Harvey	Travis Demeritte
Pick Analysis: The Rangers are another team that goes after tools and projection every single time. Demeritte is going to take a long time before sniffing the big leagues. He is incredibly raw but does have plus power potential and a strong arm for third base.—Wells Hunter Harvey is exactly the type of young pitching prospect that the Rangers tend to covet. With a highly projectable frame and a fastball that’s reached the mid-to-upper 90s this spring, there’s a decent chance he may not make it this far. But if he does, expect the Rangers to shell out some big bucks to sign him.—Rosenbaum
24	Oakland Athletics	Tim Anderson	Matt Krook
Pick Analysis: Drafting Addison Russell last year could be the start of a new philosophy for Oakland, which used to just go after college players with a high floor early. Krook would fit the new mold, as a left-hander with above-average present velocity, a plus curveball and projection.—Wells Although the A’s netted a great prospect last June in Addison Russell, a team can never have too many high-ceiling up-the-middle prospects in its system. Anderson has the athleticism and tools to stick at shortstop and could conceivably move to center field down the road.—Rosenbaum
25	San Francisco Giants	Phil Bickford	Rob Kaminsky
Pick Analysis: Kaminsky lacks the projection you want in a typical high school pitcher, but he is very advanced for his age, showing very good control and a solid three-pitch mix. Given the Giants' success at developing arms, you would have to trust they will get the most out of Kaminsky.—Wells It’s easy to envision the Giants selecting a top-notch pitching prospect because, well, that’s what they do. But after selecting college right-hander Chris Stratton last June, the organization could stand to go younger with this year’s pick, meaning that the hard-throwing Bickford could be their guy if he’s still on the board.—Rosenbaum
26	New York Yankees	Rob Kaminsky	Eric Jagielo
Pick Analysis: The Yankees can do any number of things in the first round with three picks. Jagielo is a safe option at this spot, both because he won't command a huge portion of the signing bonus and he's an average third baseman with solid hitting skills and plus power.—Wells The Yankees have been linked to Kaminsky all spring, a local product (New Jersey) with a mature arsenal and present pitchability. Even if they don’t take him here, expect the Bronx Bombers to target the left-hander with one of their picks in the first round.—Rosenbaum
27	Cincinnati Reds	Kyle Serrano	Kyle Serrano
Pick Analysis: A high school right-hander with a fastball that sits in the low 90s thanks to tremendous arm speed and a knee-buckling curveball, Serrano is squarely in the first-round mix. He slides down a bit because there are questions about whether he will honor his commitment to the University of Tennessee, where his father, Dave Serrano, is the head coach. He also doesn't offer much physical projection at 6'0", 185 pounds, so a drafting team will be banking on the present stuff, which is very good, and future command.—Wells
28	St. Louis Cardinals*	Cord Sandberg	Billy McKinney
Pick Analysis: McKinney would be a very good value pick at this spot. He doesn't offer much in the way of defense as a fringy left fielder, but he has a beautiful left-handed swing and projects to be a plus hitter with above-average home run power.—Wells After landing two advanced college players (Michael Wacha, James Ramsey) in the first round last June, the Cardinals would benefit from selecting a high school player right here, as they need to begin re-stocking their lower-level affiliates. The only question is whether they’ll be able to offer Sandberg enough for him to pass on his dual-sport (quarterback) commitment to Mississippi State.—Rosenbaum
29	Tampa Bay Rays*	Jon Denney	Hunter Green
Pick Analysis: The Rays, more often than not, will shoot for ceiling in the first round. Green has a projectable 6'3" frame, already sits in the low 90s with his fastball and has the potential for two average off-speed pitches. Considering how slow Tampa Bay plays things with its pitchers, as well as the depth already in the big leagues, the team can afford to wait as long as it has to for Green to develop.—Wells Denney’s stock has slipped this spring due to his inconsistent performance on both sides of the ball, but he’s still showcased the type of loud tools that usually intrigue the Rays.—Rosenbaum
30	Texas Rangers*	Travis Demeritte	Dominic Smith
Pick Analysis: Smith is one of the top hitters in this draft class. He has a great swing from the left side, already showing plus power in games. He is limited to first base, but he is a tremendous defender at the position with soft hands and a plus throwing arm that he won't get to show off very often.—Wells In each of the last four drafts the Rangers have targeted the top high school prospect on the board, and expect this year to be no exception. If Demeritte, who's quietly emerged as one of the more exciting players in the class, is still on the board, expect the Rangers to be all over him.-Rosenbaum
31	Atlanta Braves*	Marco Gonzales	Marco Gonzales
Pick Analysis: After straying from the usual draft strategy last season when they selected local prep right-hander Lucas Sims with the 21st overall pick, expect the Braves to target a pitchability, high-floor arm, such as Gonzales, capable of a quick but steady ascension through their system.—Rosenbaum
32	New York Yankees*	Billy McKinney	Reese McGuire
Pick Analysis: Here is where the Yankees can play around with some things. McGuire is a potential top-10-15 pick thanks to the strong possibility he will stay behind the plate, plus throwing arm and good blocking/receiving skills. He will have to prove he can hit, however.—Wells Assuming that the Yankees net a top pitching prospect at No. 26 overall, this will be the organization’s first chance to target an impact bat. Although he’s a younger hitter and lacks defensive projection, McKinney’s bat would stand out in their system.—Rosenbaum
33	New York Yankees*	Eric Jagielo	Dustin Peterson
Pick Analysis: Peterson has the makings of an average second baseman at the next level. He has a good swing with above-average bat speed. He is raw and will need to adjust to quality off-speed stuff, but his tools are very exciting and he's a good find at the end of the first round.—Wells If the Yankees do in fact go with high school players with each of their first two picks, expect them to hedge against their investment with an impact college bat such as Jagielo, who offers plus power from the left side of the plate.—Rosenbaum