The Tigers entered this years draft without a first round pick for the first time since 1984. After signing the Houston Astros Type A free agent, Jose Valverde, over the winter the Tigers had to sacrifice their first round pick. Since they lost two free agents of their own Type B free agents, Brandon Lyon and Fernando Rodney, the Tigers obtained two supplemental picks in the first round. With the 44th and 48th picks the Tigers selected:
#44: Nick Castellanos: 3B, Archbishop McCarthy HS, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Despite just graduating high school, the Tigers could not pass on Castellanos’s potential. He is projected to hit the cover off of the ball, with power to all fields. His hitting and large frame,6-feet-3, 190 pounds and growing, have given scouts impressions that he will only get bigger and stronger. He was rated as the top third baseman in this draft class, but will definitely need a few years in the minors. Signability is the main reason Castellanos dropped past scouts projected 20 prediction. He is currently projected to attend his hometown University of Miami. As the Tigers have proven the last several years, they are not shy about forking over cash to sign the prospects they covet. He would instantly becomes one of the Tigers top hitting prospects if they can find a way to sign him. Easy choice for the Tigers, Brandon Inge’s continued struggles at the plate have proven they are in desperate need of an upgrade. This selection will allow the Tigers to make short term decisions about third base, as they wait for Castellanos to work with way through their farm system.
#48 Chance Ruffin: Relief Pitcher, University of Texas
I have read mixed reviews on Ruffin. Many have suggested this was based on sign-ability, other sources have suggested he will be a dominant bullpen arm. From what I can gather off of scouting reports he has above average stuff and had a very successful career at the University of Texas. A farm system can never have enough pitching and Ruffin will add another solid arm to their system and it doesn’t sound like he will need much time in the minors.
Overall solid selections from the Tigers, only time will tell how these selections will pan out.
Thanks, for the in depth report.