Future Watch: Garrett Whitley Baseball Rookie Cards, Tampa – Garrett Whitley was a first round selection in the 2015 MLB Draft as the 13th overall pick by the Tampa Bay Rays. The 6′, 200 lb outfielder has a lot of promise. He started showing that when he attended Niskayuna High School in New York.
With two teams in rookie ball he did slug 3 homers, drove in 17, walked 21 times but only hit .174. That’s mostly good news if you’re a “Money Ball” fan. This guy has power and speed and that’s something the Rays think can help them down the road.
Whitley is the first player from the Empire State drafted in the first round since Manny Ramirez back in 1991.
As an 18-year-old facing 100 mile per hour pitching in 100-degree heat were things he had to get used to. That’s part of the adjustment period that a youngster has to go through before he can graduate to the big leagues out of high school.
Here is a look at the patience and selective approach he has at the plate:
According to his MLB.com draft profile:
“Whitley has an advanced approach at the plate for a high schooler from a cold-weather state, and his strength and bat speed could produce above-average right-handed power. His pure speed is his best tool, grading as a legitimate plus. Whitley’s wheels also give him plenty of range in center field, and he has a better arm than most players at that position.”
This guy loves playing the game. He has all the tools necessary to be a star. Now all he needs is some time to hone his skills. Collectors should be excited for what’s coming down the road.
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