Pittsburgh Steel Makers Draft Review

Round 1 Pick 8: Donn Jones (RF) – The second ranked hitter from a pure offensive standpoint behind Hull, Jones looks to be a perennial Silver Slugger candidate. The best prospect I’ve seen in some time at putting the ball in play, Jones is also one of the more powerful players in this year’s class. A patient player with solid work ethic, the Steel Makers will be able to keep Jones in Pittsburgh his entire career. While currently slated to play RF, Jones does not have soft hands which may force the Steel Makers to ultimately move him to 1B and his durability may preclude him from playing all 162 games.

ML Projections: .340 BA, .970 OPS.

Round 1 Pick 56: Milt Lamb (C) – The top offensive catching prospect in this year’s class (just ahead of Gonzales), Lamb has the hitting ability to spend several productive years at the ML level, provided he reaches his potential. Lamb has good contact and eye at the plate, and is moderately more effective against LH pitching. On the defensive front, while Lamb won’t be mistaken for Pudge, he is good enough that the team will keep him on the field for his bat.

ML Projections: .275 BA, .800 OPS.

Round 1 Pick 57: Roosevelt Andrews (CF) – Not scouted.

Round 2 Pick 91: Banana Palmer (P) – Not scouted.

Other notable selections: None.

Grade: A-. The Steel Makers added two solid pieces to their lineup in this year’s class. A great job by the front office.