2011 MLB Draft: Los Angeles Angels Review
The Angels have a new scouting director in Ric Wilson, after parting ways with long-time director Eddie Bane last fall. The Angels concentrated on upside and athletes in previous drafts. Would Wilson's philosophy be different than Bane's?
1) C.J. Cron, 1B, Utah: Massive power combined with solid pure-hitting skills result in a booming bat that won't need long in the minors.
3) Nick Maronde, LHP, Florida: Lively 92-96 MPH fastball resulted in college success in the bullpen, but refinement of his slider and changeup will be necessary in the pros.
4) Mike Clevinger, RHP, Seminole State JC: Another power arm at 93-95 MPH with a plus slider, but inconsistent mechanics can result in command issues. Will he start or relieve? No four-year college commitment that I know of.
5) Andrew Ray, OF, Northeast Texas CC: LSU recruit should be signable in this slot. Clean swing results in good batting average, has some power, average speed, good arm.
6) Austin Wood, RHP, Southern Cal: Very good arm, clocked as high as 99 MPH last summer, but very erratic track record and mediocre college stats (5.61 ERA, 50/34 K/BB, 90 hits in 77 IP) due to weak secondary stuff.
7) Abel Baker, C, Grayson County CC: No, his middle name is not "Charlie" or "Delta." At least I hope it isn't. Good power, defense is considered solid, no four-year commitment listed.
8) Logan Odom, RHP, Southern Cal: Doesn't have the same quality fastball as college tammate Wood, but more successful (3.96 ERA) due to superior command.
9) Nick Mutz, RHP, Cotati, California (no school). Name sounds like a Simpson's character. College-age pitcher not in school right now but impressed scouts with 95 MPH fastball in workouts. No idea what they have here.
10) Drew Martinez, OF, University of Memphis: Son of Chito. Lacks power, but gets on base, effective stealer with solid speed, good glove. Reserve outfielder profile.
OTHERS OF NOTE: OF Domonic Jose (15th round, Florida HS, son of Felix) has excellent tools but an expensive Stanford commitment. C Hunter Lockwood (17th round, Texas HS) has a powerful bat and would have gone 12-14 rounds higher if not for an Oklahoma commitment. Signing either of these guys would boost the class considerably.
SUMMARY: Junior college theme in the middle rounds, and some creative thinking with Mutz. I like the Cron pick. Most of the other rounds were focused on upside over polish. If they can refine them it's a good draft but it will be awhile before this one can be fully judged.
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