The Guardians' draft pick at No. 59 has certainly raised some eyebrows and sparked an intriguing conversation. Let's dive into this selection and explore why it's a fascinating move.
The Choice: Logan Schmidt
The Guardians have opted for a young, talented left-handed pitcher, Logan Schmidt, out of Ganesha High School in California. At 6'4" and 210 lbs, Schmidt is a physical specimen, and his age, just 17, makes him one of the youngest prospects in this draft class. MLB Pipeline ranked him 45th overall, which is an impressive feat.
MLB Pipeline's Take
According to MLB Pipeline, this draft is a treasure trove for teams seeking high-potential left-handed pitchers. Schmidt, along with Gio Rojas and Carson Bolemon, forms a trio of standout southpaws from different regions. What's particularly intriguing is Schmidt's velocity, which has seen a notable increase this summer, especially during the Area Code Games. His fastball now consistently reaches the 94-97 mph range, a significant jump from the 93-94 mph he previously clocked.
Schmidt's arsenal includes a slider that can disappear and a changeup with good arm speed. He has shown excellent control and the ability to consistently hit the strike zone with all three pitches. This, combined with his young age and potential for further development, makes him an attractive prospect.
Personal Take
I find it fascinating that Schmidt's velocity increase is a relatively recent development. It suggests that he has untapped potential and could continue to improve. His ability to repeat his delivery and fill the strike zone is a testament to his skill and maturity as a pitcher, despite his young age. The fact that he reclassified to finish high school early is an interesting strategic move that could pay dividends for the Guardians.
Grading the Pick
MLB Pipeline grades Schmidt with a 50 overall, which is a solid rating. His individual pitch grades are consistent with his overall rating, indicating a well-rounded skill set. Personally, I think this pick is an exciting one. The Guardians have identified a young, talented pitcher with room to grow, and his left-handedness adds an extra layer of intrigue. I'd give this pick a B+, as it's a strategic and potentially high-reward selection.
Deeper Analysis
This pick highlights the importance of scouting and identifying potential. Schmidt's velocity increase is a great example of how small improvements can significantly impact a player's draft stock. It also shows the value of investing in young talent, as Schmidt's age and potential for growth are significant assets. Additionally, the Guardians' decision to select a high schooler over a college player suggests a long-term vision and a willingness to take calculated risks.
Conclusion
The Guardians' selection of Logan Schmidt is an intriguing move that showcases their faith in young talent and their ability to identify potential. With his physical attributes, recent velocity gains, and excellent control, Schmidt has the makings of a promising left-handed starter. This pick is an exciting development for the Guardians and a fascinating story for baseball fans to follow.
