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Draft prospects

Sporting News, The, June 10, 2005

Baseball's amateur draft takes place next week; Sporting News Radio's Kevin Wheeler offers his take on who the top five picks should be.

1. RHP Mike Pelfrey, Wichita State (D-backs)

Pelfrey is Arizona's best option given the organization's current state. The minor league system is loaded with hitting prospects, and the major league club has undergone a resurgence; a polished college pitcher who can contribute quickly makes more sense than a position player or a high school pitcher. The 6-7 Pelfrey throws in the mid-90s and has a hard breaking pitch, and his command has been steadily improving. Look for him to be one of the first players in his draft class to make the majors.

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2. SS Justin Upton, Great Bridge (Va.) HS (Royals) The younger brother of Devil Rays prospect BJ. Upton is a five-tool talent who can move quickly through the minors. The Royals usually are stingy with signing bonuses, but they should make an exception here. Upton might eventually play center field; he could replace what K.C. lost when Carlos Beltran was traded.

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3. RHP Craig Hansen, St. John's (Mariners) The top relief pitcher in the draft is close to major league-ready. His outstanding fastball and first-rate breaking pitch should allow him to succeed immediately. Hansen could help the Mariners this season if he signs quickly enough. Seattle doesn't have a closer of the future in its farm system.

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4. 3B Ryan Braun, Miami (Nationals) Braun has the highest upside among the top third basemen in this draft: He is an outstanding athlete who has plenty of experience playing for a college powerhouse. Vinny Cast a isn't going to be around forever, and Braun should be ready soon. He has power, speed and patience at the plate, and he also can play shortstop.

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5. RHP Luke Hochevar, Tennessee (Brewers) Milwaukee has several good positional prospects, so taking a pitcher makes sense here. Hochevar gained valuable experience pitching for Team USA last summer and is more polished than Brewers pitching prospects Jose Capellan and Mark Rogers. He would be a solid complement to ace Ben Sheets.

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Draft prospects

Sporting News, The, June 10, 2005

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