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Forrest Whitley 2016 MLB Draft Profile

Forrest Whitley 2016 MLB Draft Preview: The right-hander still needs polish up his command and mechanics, but could be a number two starter down the road.

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: Alamo Heights
Position: Right-Handed Pitcher
Height: 6’7”
Weight: 225 lbs.
Bats: Right
Throws: Right

Forrest Whitley 2016 MLB Draft Profile

Forrest Whitley has shown vast improvements in his physical conditioning over the last season. That, in turn, has allowed him to become more than just a raw power pitcher. He was able to trim down from 250 lbs. to about 225 lbs. while not losing any velocity on his fastball, which typically hits speeds of 92-95 mph, but has been known to peak at 97. He also throws a hard curve and slider, as well as a change-up. Having already committed to Florida State, Whitley will have more time to polish up his mechanics, and over all command, before pitching for a farm system, and ultimately the majors.

Strengths:

Fastball velocity of 97 mph
Smart pitch selection when facing batters

Weaknesses:

While it has improved, Whitley still needs to work on his command
Whitley’s mechanics need a little more polishing before he makes it to the majors

MLB Comparison: Corey Kluber, Right-Handed Pitcher, Cleveland Indians
Projected Pick Range: 25-30
Most Likely Landing Spot: Texas Rangers

Bottom Line

Whitley will probably go in the late in the first round. When all is said and done, Whitley will probably wind up being a number two or three pitcher in a rotation, with the ability to be a power arm out of the bullpen if needed. Wherever he winds up, Whitley will be a huge asset to the organization, and to its pitching staff.