Pittsburgh Pirates: Early Look at Potential Pitcher & Position Player Over Slot Draft Pick

INF Colt Emerson

Colt Emerson hails from Ohio. The infielder could be the first high schooler drafted in the first three rounds out of the state since Derek Dietrich in 2007. Emmerson is a highly advanced batter who’s looking to get selected in the early stages of next year’s draft.

According to MLB Pipeline, Emerson has a high-end hit tool, coming in at a 60-grade weapon. He hit .360 during the showcase circuit. But he isn’t just a Kevin Newman-like hitter who makes a ton of contact with zero power to speak of. Emerson consistently drives the gaps with authority. Although he’s more of a doubles hitter, he has the potential to hit 20+ home runs a season.

Emerson’s swing is picturesque, and he uses his bat speed to generate most of his power. As a defensive infielder, Emerson spent his time on the U.S. National team as the third baseman. But he has plenty of playing time at shortstop. He’s a decent defender up the middle with a strong enough arm to play on the left side of the infield, though he could see time at all infield positions, maybe except for first base.

Still, Emerson is a guy who could regularly bat .280 with 30+ doubles and 18+ home runs a season with decent defense wherever he ends up. He’s currently ranked as the 45th-best draft prospect, per MLB Pipeline, but he has a commitment to Auburn. Given his advanced approach, he seems like a guy who could quickly adapt to professional-level pitching and move up the minor league ladder with ease.