The Toronto Blue Jays are looking at drafting Bo Bichette's replacement
Photo credit: BW Media
One potential option for the Toronto Blue Jays with the eight overall pick is Billy Carlson, a shortstop out of Corona High School in Corona, California.
While the Blue Jays have never selected a player from Corona High School specifically, they do have a history of drafting numerous high school prospects out of California.
Blue Jays poised to select a shortstop in this year's MLB Draft.
Ryley Delaney from Blue Jays Nation writes that Carlson is one of four players from Corona High School featured on MLB's Pipeline's Top 200 draft-eligible prospects list. He ranks seventh overall, while right-handed pitcher Seth Hernandez holds the No. 2 spot, third baseman Brady Ebel comes in at No. 61, and right-handed pitcher/outfielder Ethin Bingman is ranked 145th.
"The right-handed batting shortstop does have an interesting profile, as he's almost guaranteed to stick at the position in his professional career. The glove is where Carlson sticks out, as he has incredible arm strength and is a terrific fielder at one of the hardest positions in the sport." -Delaney
That's not to say Carlson lacks skill at the plate, far from it. He has the potential to develop into an above-average power hitter. Opinions on his hit tool vary among scouts, but his line-drive approach gives off strong leadoff hitter vibes.
"In the draft, it's ideal to select the best player available. When the Blue Jays select eighth overall, Carlson may be the best player available. Sure, the Jays already have a highly ranked shortstop in Arjun Nimmala, but there's a chance that the 19-year-old eventually moves to third base as he fills out his frame." -Delaney
Drafting high school players always comes with some risk, but Carlson's defensive abilities give him a solid floor. If his bat develops as hoped, he has the potential to become a perennial All-Star. There's plenty to like about the 18-year-old's all-around game.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 23 | 1479 ANSWERS The Toronto Blue Jays are looking at drafting Bo Bichette's replacement Do you think prospect Billy Carlson has a future in the MLB? | ||
| yes | 918 | 62.1 % |
| no | 561 | 37.9 % |
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