I’ve followed the draft online for the last few years, but this year had a whole different flavor. I was amazed with all the coverage and discussion that was stirred up. From the pick-to-pick anxiety to the excitement that resonated hours after the end of the fifth round, I had as much fun following the draft as I’ve ever had with any fantasy draft.
And as awesome as it was to hear so many names that I’m familiar with called off, I realize that the MLB draft still isn’t an event that many people have a firm grasp on. Shoot! Just last year, I was emailing experts for advice on whether to add Andrew Miller or Luke Hochevar to my keeper team.
As most of the people who kept up with our amazing draft thread know, pure draft position isn’t always a good indicator of how talented a prospect is. With that in mind, here’s my list of the Top 10 potential impact fantasy players from the 2007 Draft:
1. David Price, LHP, TB (8/26/85): Already a better prospect than Andrew Miller? I think so.
ETA: Mid-2008
2. Rick Porcello, RHP, DET (12/27/88): Stud prep pitcher will be a Tiger not a Tar Heel.
ETA: Early-2010
3. Josh Vitters, 3B, CHC (8/27/89): Best all-around HS bat given extended track record.
ETA: Mid-2010
4. Mike Moustakas, 3B, KC (9/11/88): May be the top power hitter in this draft class.
ETA: Early-2010
5. Matt Wieters, C, BAL (5/21/86): Defense isn't a concern to me; polished switch-hitter.
ETA: Late-2008
6. Ross Detwiler, LHP, WAS (3/6/86): Breaking ball will determine if he’s a No. 2 or No. 3.
ETA: Late-2008
7. Jarrod Parker, RHP, ARI (11/24/88): Rocket arm + slight build = high risk/reward.
ETA: Late-2010
8. Madison Bumgarner, LHP, SF (8/1/89): Excellent athlete; breaking ball will improve; No. 2?
ETA: Early-2011
9. Jason Heyward, OF, ATL (8/9/89): Top OF from this class; great power; future likely in RF.
ETA: Late-2009
10. Kevin Ahrens, 3B, TOR (4/26/88): Solid all-around ball player who will continue to break out.
ETA: Early-2011
Honorable Mentions: Beau Mills (3B, CLE), Matt Dominguez (3B, FLA), Phillippe Aumont (RHP, SEA), Matt LaPorta (1B, MIL), Blake Beaven (RHP, TEX), Julio Borbon (CF, TEX).
Did I skip over anyone who you would have included (Moskos fans :)? Email me at adamwfoster@gmail.com.