It wasn’t until pick # 808 that the Marlins drafted a player from Florida State University. It just wasn’t the pick most were hoping for. No, Buster Posey was gone by the time the Marlins drafted high school catching phenom Kyle Skipworth – Posey was drafted #5 overall. Yet, the Marlins seem to have a clear strategy and shored up the places of need as well as added more depth to the farm system.
Yet, in typical Marlins fashion, there was a heavy focus on pitching: five of their first eight picks were pitchers. Overall, 16 of their first 30 picks were pitchers.
The Marlins drafted a lot of high school talent as compared to other teams: 6 of their first 8 were from high school. “You go with what the draft presents to you. We like to take the best player be it high school or college.” Marlins General Manager Michael Hill said Friday.
He noted that there were a lot of college bats that went early in the draft, but also that was somewhat of an anomaly. Normally, pitching comes from the college ranks but this draft in particular there seemed to be more value from college hitters than in past drafts.
Brad Hand, a lefty from Minnesota, Hill is high on. He has a very good fastball and a strong curve, but needs some polishing as he has to refine his pitching approach and develop a strong 3rd pitch.
Daniel Jennings, drafted in the 9th round (268th overall), is the son of Marlins’ trainer Dan Jennings.
To glean the rest of the future fish, keep an eye on the rest of the Marlins draft here.
As for contracts, the Marlins expect to sign upwards of 30 players in time for their short season which begins June 15th in Jupiter.
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