Welcome back to LWOS 2016 MLB Draft Coverage, the column that brings you player profiles for the next crop of professional baseball players that are likely to be selected in the upcoming draft. Be sure to bookmark the site, follow us on Twitter, and spread the word for the site that will bring you analytical profiles and scouting reports. Click here to check out our complete coverage of the 2016 MLB Draft. Last Word On Sports is your new headquarters for all things 2016 MLB Draft!
Overview
School: University of Florida
Position: OF
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 185
Bats: Switch
Throws: Right
Buddy Reed 2016 MLB Draft Profile
When Buddy Reed began his senior season as a Florida Gator, he was ranked as a consensus top-five draft prospect, with the thought of him possibly going number one overall. His stock has slipped some since then. However, don’t expect him fall out of the first round.
Reed, a Rhode Island native, is slashing .303/.403/.462 this season f0r the Gators, leading them to a SEC regular season title and a run for the College World Series.
Strengths
- Tall, athletic build
- Elite speed on both sides of the diamond
- Impact college bat
- Strong, quick defender in center field
- Great plate discipline
- Top performer at premier college baseball program
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent with hitting approach
- Hitting mechanics questionable from the left side
- Shows problems with aggressiveness at the plate
MLB Comparison: Cameron Maybin, center fielder, Detroit Tigers
Projected Pick Range: 10-15
Most Likely Landing Spot: Seattle Mariners
Bottom Line
Buddy Reed is one of the most athletic players in this year’s draft class, certainly among college bats. He has shown inconsistency at the plate at times, especially from the left side. However, his plate discipline has improved, and he should be able to refine his hitting approach. His combination of speed and defense makes him a perfect fit for any major league outfield, notably teams looking for center fielders. He should be a top-15 selection despite his hitting struggles, and one of the first few college bats selected.
Sources: MLB Pipeline, Perfect Game, Minor League Ball
Main Photo via YouTube.com
