2017 MLB Draft Profile: Ryan Vilade, 3B, Stillwater, Oklahoma

Here’s another addition to our series of player profiles for Monday’s 2017 MLB Draft: Ryan Vilade, a high school infielder from Stillwater, Oklahoma.

THE BASICS

Ryan Vilade attends Stillwater High School in (logically enough) Stillwater. He comes from a baseball family: his father James Vilade is an assistant baseball coach for Oklahoma State University. Ryan has been a showcase presence since 2013, drawing particular notice for his offensive potential.

Listed at 6-2, 190, Vilade is a right-handed hitter and thrower born February 18, 1999. He is committed to Oklahoma State for college ball.

STRENGTHS

A shortstop in high school, Vilade projects as a third baseman in pro ball. His 60-grade arm will work there, while his range and hands are a better fit at the hot corner than at shortstop. He has some experience at second base also but his arm would be something of a waste there.

The main draw here is the bat: Vilade is quite strong, with 55 or 60 raw power depending on the source. Although he’s tinkered with his swing mechanics, his bat is considered more polished than most high school hitters, reflecting the fact that he is the son of a hitting coach. His makeup is considered very strong.

WEAKNESSES

Speed is his weakest tool but that’s OK if the power blossoms as expected. He’s had his share of inconsistency at the plate but that’s normal for his age and he’s shown the ability to make necessary changes and shorten his swing. It may be expensive to buy him away from his Oklahoma State commitment.

OVERALL PROJECTION

Vilade is projected as a second round pick by most observers. If he falls too far past that, his bonus demands and the opportunity to play for his dad with the Cowboys will come into play.