2013 MLB Draft: Competitive Balance Round

Follow the competitive balance round right here with more commentary and live discussion.

1B-34) Royals: Sean Manaea, LHP, Indiana State University: This big 6-5, 235 pound southpaw broke through in the Cape Cod League last summer with an outstanding fastball. His secondary stuff can be erratic and his velocity was up-and-down this spring, but he was still considered a lock to go in the top half of the round until his season ended early with hip and shoulder issues. Despite his problems, his statistical performance was still excellent, with a 1.47 ERA in 73 innings and a 93/27 K/BB ratio with just 49 hits allowed. He could be a real steal here for the Royals if he stands up physically.

1B-35) Marlins: Matt Krook, LHP, St. Ignatius Prep HS, Hillsborough, California: Another hard-throwing lefty, Krook can get to 94-95 mph and has a classic 6-4, 195 pound pitcher build. His curve has promise, but he's rather raw and will need patient development. His upside is among the highest in the class, but his stock has been up and down to some extent this spring. He is committed to the University of Oregon but should be signable here.

1B-36) Diamondbacks: Aaron Blair, RHP, Marshall University: Seen as a second-round type pre-season, Blair has moved up the charts due to his 6-5, 220 pound body, 89-95 MPH heater, excellent change, and average breaking stuff. He posted a 2.85 ERA with an 84/36 K/BB in 82 innings, allowing 59 hits. Like Jonathan Gray, he tested positive for using adderral without a prescription in pre-draft medical screenings, but it didn't hurt his stock much.

1B-37) Orioles: Josh Hart, OF, Parkview HS, Lilburn, Georgia: A 6-1, 190 pound left-handed hitter, Hart has outstanding speed and athleticism, projecting as a future leadoff hitter. He is committed to Georgia Tech, but is considered signable in this spot. The main question revolves around how much power he'll develop, but his ability to hit for average, get on base, and field his position in center field isn't doubted.

1B-38) Reds: Mike Lorenzen, RHP-OF, Cal State Fullerton: A two-way talent, Lorenzen was preferred as a hitter by some clubs but the Reds believe he is better-suited to the mound, where his mid-to-upper-90s fastball could get him to the majors quickly as a reliever. He hit .335/.415/.523 on the season, with a 1.94 ERA and a 20/4 K/BB in 23 innings of work, collecting 19 saves. The 6-3, 195 pounder is a premium athlete.

1B-39) Tigers: Cory Knebel, RHP, University of Texas: A proven college closer, Knebel should advance very quickly due to his mid-90s fastball and nasty breaking ball. His biggest problem revolves around makeup: he was suspended twice this year, one incident involved giving his urine to a teammate for a drug test. Assuming no further complications in that department, he won't need long in the minors. Posted a 3.38 ERA with a 51/18 K/BB in 40 innings with nine saves.