Byron Buxton: OF, Appling County HS (GA), 6'2",180, R/R
Photo Credit: bleacherreport.com
Byron Buxton is a Georgia commit, but will in all likelihood not get there as he is projected to be a top 5 pick. He is being considered for the first overall selection in the draft and his tools and potential certainly warrant the consideration.Lean and athletic, Buxton looks as though he will add strength as he matures, even though he already possesses extremely good raw bat speed. He has excellent raw power, but doesn’t really tap into it in games yet and this should come as he matures physically.
Mechanically, Buxton leaks to his front side and doesn’t stay back well, with subpar pitch recognition at this point. He does not over-swing at the plate, and generates his great bat speed without too much effort. Buxton has plus speed and uses that speed well on the bases and on defense, as he is both a good base stealer and very good defender. He has a plus arm, but needs to improve his reads off of the bat, something that will come with repetitions.
Buxton has all the tools to be an all-star centerfielder at the next level, but the hit tool is behind his speed, defense and raw power potential. I see him winding up as more of a .250-.265 hitter with 20 homers and 40 steals annually.
MLB Comparison: BJ Upton
Projected Draft Position: Top 5 overall pick
Video Footage: Baseball Factory footage of Buxton at the Under Armour All America Game 2011
Mechanically, Buxton leaks to his front side and doesn’t stay back well, with subpar pitch recognition at this point. He does not over-swing at the plate, and generates his great bat speed without too much effort. Buxton has plus speed and uses that speed well on the bases and on defense, as he is both a good base stealer and very good defender. He has a plus arm, but needs to improve his reads off of the bat, something that will come with repetitions.
Buxton has all the tools to be an all-star centerfielder at the next level, but the hit tool is behind his speed, defense and raw power potential. I see him winding up as more of a .250-.265 hitter with 20 homers and 40 steals annually.
MLB Comparison: BJ Upton
Projected Draft Position: Top 5 overall pick
Video Footage: Baseball Factory footage of Buxton at the Under Armour All America Game 2011
