With the 3rd overall pick the Atlanta Braves select…
Ian Anderson
There were rumors earlier in the day that Anderson had come to an agreement with the Braves that would allow them to reallocate their pool money to their 40th and 44th picks. Anderson is still a talented prospect. The righty is a three-pitch guy, and all of them are pretty good. He throws a fastball, slurve and changeup. Many have compared him to Jacob de Grom, which I would have no problems with. The Braves will certainly have Anderson add on some weight in hopes that he can add even more velocity, as he is hitting 95 currently. Anderson has a ton of potential, but many fans will be disappointed the Braves did not go with a bat here. Anderson becomes the 6th best prospect on our top prospect list.
With the 40th overall pick the Atlanta Braves select…
Joey Wentz
Wentz has just as much upside as Anderson. The lefty did not give up an earned run in over 50 innings of work in his Senior year. He’s a 6’5″ southpaw whose fastball can touch 95. Like Anderson, Wentz has frontline starter potential. He could have 3-plus pitches when it is all said and done.
With the 44th overall pick the Atlanta Braves select…
Kyle Muller
The Braves managed to pull off hauling in 3 of the top 25 draft prospects when they nabbed Muller. He was a guy who many thought could fall to the Braves at this spot. Like Wentz, he is a projectable southpaw that has the physical traits scouts salivate over. The third pick in this Draft to become a top 10 prospect in the organization.
With the 76th overall pick the Atlanta Braves select…
Brett Cumberland
The Braves take their first bat of the draft. Brett Cumberland is an advanced college bat at a position of need. Rutherford’s stats for California were unbelievable last season. Some scouts are skeptic as to whether he can stick to the position long term, but the Braves selection likely indicates they feel he can manage the position defensively.