Saturday, January 29, 2011

Javelina Draft Recap: Rounds 1-7

With the first seven rounds of the 2011 Free Agent Draft nearly complete, it's time to take a look at the picks the Javelina have made and how they might impact the team going forward.

Round 1: No Pick
This pick was traded to Olivet for Andre Ethier in a move that should sure up the Javelina outfield for the next 2-3 years.

Round 2: Pick 2.1 - Kelly Johnson, 2B
The Javelina were aggressive in trading up in the second round, always intending to select Johnson in this slot. Johnson figures to provide above average production for a second baseman in every category except stolen bases. He will receive a 2-year contract from the organization.

Projections: .275, 20 HR, 75 RBI, 75 BB, 10 SB, 85 R.

Round 3: No Pick
This pick was traded to the Oviedo Knights in a deal involving Alfonso Soriano.

Round 4: Pick 4.14 - Ryan Dempster, SP
The plan all along was to target a SP who could provide 190+ quality innings and help in all categories. The team was pleased to find Dempster still sitting there in this slot, who should make an excellent #3 behind Gallardo and Weaver. He will receive a 2-year contract from the club.

Projections: 195 IP, 3.75 ERA, 14 W, 185 K, 1.30 WHIP

Round 5: Pick 5.3 - Gio Gonzalez, SP
Gio was one of two or three starting pitchers the club was targeting with this pick, so they were pleased to get him. The young lefty enjoyed a breakout 2010 season, posting best totals in IP, ERA, W, K and WHIP. Look for the 25-year old fireballer to refine his command in 2011 and build on last season. He will receive a 2-year contract.

Projections: 205 IP, 3.50 ERA, 13 W, 180 K, 1.25 WHIP

Round 5: Pick 5.13 - Scott Rolen, 3B
Though not a star anymore, Rolen is still very productive and should put up good numbers playing another season in Cincy. He's clutch RBI man and will hit for a solid average. He is not expected to receive a contract, but should play a key role in the DH/UTIL rotation. He'll also provide good insurance for star 3B Ryan Zimmerman.

Projections: .280, 21 HR, 85 RBI, 50 BB, 70 R

Round 6: Pick 6.13 - Ike Davis, 1B
Management was fairly surprised to find the budding 1B and former Sun Devil still available at this spot and decided it was time to pull the trigger. Like Rolen, Davis figures to receive plenty of time at the UTIL spot and provides solid insurance for Paul Konerko. He figures to help in the RBI and BB categories as the club waits for his power to develop. He will receive a 2-year contract.

Projections: .275, 22 HR, 80 RBI, 80 BB, 70 R

Round 7: Pick 7.13 - Andres Torres, OF
The former Javelina returns home. The club liked Torres for his speed and considered him a solid 5th OFer with the ability to contribute when needed. He could also figure into the UTIL rotation and might even supplant Alfonso Soriano depending upon how the later performs in the early going. His speed figures to prove valuable. He will not receive a contract.

Projections: .265, 15 HR, 60 RBI, 50 BB, 25 SB, 75 R

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