MLB Draft : A Mock with Complete Analysis of Every Team

#3: Atlanta Braves

Nick: AJ Puk, Left-Handed Pitcher, Florida

The Braves love pitchers.  They have acquired a ton of pitching over the last few years.  AJ Puk adds to that group here at #3.  The Braves would really like Riley Pint here, but Puk could have been the #1 overall pick and the Braves cannot pass on the talent and closeness to the MLB.  Puk is a big 6’7” left-handed pitcher who throws a mi-90s fastball from the left side.  This is a rare commodity to find from the left side.

David: Riley Pint, Right Handed Pitcher, St. Thomas Aquinas High School (Kansas)

The Braves are in retooling mode, trading away their best talents to load up on younger talent in hoping to start competing at a high rate once again in the near future. Pint comes in as one of the top two prep arms in this draft and one of the most electric arms in the draft. Pint will have to develop more in the minors more than a college arm, but his raw and projectable stuff looks like he can lead a Major League pitching staff.

#4: Colorado Rockies

  Nick: Kyle Lewis, Outfielder, Mercer College

      The Rockies have traveled down the road of taking pitchers over the last few years.  Last year, they strayed away from the philosophy and grabbed the highest upside player in infielder Brendan Rodgers.  The Rockies could look at Nick Senzel here, but may instead look for a Carlos Gonzalez replacement.  Lewis is the best power outfield bat in the draft and would fit right in at Coor’s Field. Not to mention he is the best prospect on the board at this point and the Rockies like college players. 

David: Jason Groome, Left Handed Pitcher, Barnegat High School (New Jersey)

The Rockies are always in search of pitching, as Coors field is a pitcher’s worst nightmare. Groome has a great frame at 6’6” and 220 pounds, screaming projectable stuff. His fastball from the left side has hit 96, but usually sits mid 90s. Groome will need the time to develop and polish up due to his young age of 17. In a couple years, Groome can be that pitcher.

Next: #5 Pick and #6 Pick