Speed and raw-power are a rare combination in amateur baseball. Though he needs work with professional hitting coaches, Jeren Kendall could be an early pick as a outfielder.
Jeren Kendall 2017 MLB Draft Profile
Overview
Coming out of high school in 2014, Kendall caught the attention of more than a few scouts. He would have been drafted early, but he was seen as a difficult signee because he committed strongly to Vanderbilt University. SEC coaches named him to the All-SEC and All-Defensive Teams at the end of the 2017 season. Kendall also earned Third-Team All-American status by NCBWA in 2016.
Strengths
Kendall possesses plus-plus speed, with a scouting grade of 70 and the potential to steal 30 bags per year in the show. Considered one of the top defensive outfielders in the draft by Minor League Ball, he rates a 55 or so with his throwing arm. In his senior year at Vanderbilt, he slashed .310/.379/.569/.948. He has walked 24 times, and collected 29 extra base knocks out of 77 total hits. Kendall drove in 51 runs, and stole 18 bases in 22 attempts this season. In 799 plate appearances over his career with the Commodores, he only grounded into two double plays. In 683 career at-bats, he has 212 hits and a career slash line of .310/.389/.558/.947. On the base paths and in the outfield, he is an extremely dangerous player. He can potentially become a five tool player, if….
Weaknesses
He can get on base. Plate discipline is a major issue for Kendall. He struck out 69 times in 2017, and 191 times over the course of his college career. His K/BB ratio is 2.73 for three years. That, combined with his performance in the Cape Code League, where he slashed .216/.286/.333/.619, indicates that he may not be ready for prime time with a wooden bat. Work with professional hitting coaches can help his approach, and his college coach stated he is easy to work with.
MLB Comparison
2015 Javier Baez
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