Matt Krook: Prospect Profile for Miami Marlins' No. 35 Overall Pick

Player: Matt Krook

Drafted by: Miami Marlins (No. 35 Overall)

Position: LHP

DOB: 10/21/1994 (Age: 18)

Height/Weight: 6’4”/195 lbs

Bats/Throws: L/L

School: St. Ignatius Prep (Calif.)

College Commitment: Oregon

 

Background

While Krook was a relatively known commodity as a left-handed-hitting outfielder after last spring, it wasn’t until the 2012 Area Code Games that he opened eyes with his ability on the mound.

Since then, the 6’4”, 195-pound left-hander has blossomed into one of the top left-handers in the 2013 draft class. Always regarded as an excellent athlete, Krook has begun to grow into his lanky frame and, more importantly, has developed a legitimate feel for pitching. As a result, his velocity has been up this spring and secondary offerings much improved.

The only concern with Krook is his strong commitment to the University of Oregon—a program with a solid track record of players honoring their commitment. But given his upside, there’s still a chance he’ll be drafted high enough to consider signing.

Full Scouting Report

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

Body/Mechanics:

Impressive athleticism in 6’4”, 195-pound frame; room to add strength; relatively new to the mound with strong track record as an outfielder; good drive and body control throughout delivery; creates natural deception; inconsistent arm slot and release point; can get out-of-sync quickly; a lot of room for improvement with experience.

 

Fastball: 50/60

Works consistently in the low-90s; pitch has some weight and late life when located down in the zone; tops out around 94-95 mph; stands to benefit from more arm-side action.

 

Curveball: 60/65

Underrated and one of the best in the draft class; thrown with good arm speed; high release creates tight spin; hammer with downer bite; swing-and-miss offering.

 

Changeup: 40/50

Pitch is present but undeveloped due to lack of experience; lacks consistency and feel; tends to push it to the arm side; average potential.

Control: 40/50

Inconsistent mechanics, release point; can dominate when around the plate or be a walk machine when off; athleticism and limited experience will lead to inevitable improvement.

Command: 40/50

Can carve up opposing hitters throughout strike zone when body and delivery are working together; highly effective when pounding lower portion of strike zone with fastball; generates lots of ugly swings when working low; as with his control, there’s a lot of room for improvement.

 

MLB Player Comparison: Chris Sale

Projection: High-end No. 2 starter.

 

MLB ETA: 2017

 

Chances of Signing: 40 percent