The Pittsburgh Pirates, with their 32nd pick in the 2015 MLB Draft, selected third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes. The 18-year-old native of Tomball, Tx., and graduate of Concordia Lutheran High School, the pick was received as compensation from the Toronto Blue Jays after they signed Russell Martin to a 5-year $82 million contract.
The son of former big league outfielder has intangibles that could one day translate into MLB production, but the Pirates will need to work on his conditioning and defensive play for this to become a reality. The Pirates have needed some infield depth, especially at third base, and they have definitely filled a minor league hole with this pick.
Over the course of 34 games played in high school, the 6-foot 1, 205-pound right-handed batter hit at a .413 clip along with 45 hits, 30 RBI and 27 runs in 109 total at-bats. The young kid has been able to trim down a bit and will look to gain some muscle once he begins his career in the minor leagues.
The fluid hitter has the most upside with his bat. A simple motion and his raw power are just a part of what makes him so successful on the field. Although he can hit for power, he stays disciplined enough not to sell out an at-bat for a home run.
Now, he may not become a true slugger and hit over 30 home runs a year, but for Hayes to become a solid major league player he will need to develop more on offense and defense. Pittsburgh will look to work more on his ability to recognize pitches and handle hard heat coming through the strike zone.
The Pirates, who needed to find more minor league infield depth have been finding players that are not only a good fit for the system but also are players who may one day contribute at the major league level. It may take some years but if Hayes can develop into the player that scouts believe he can be, this could turn out to be a steal, especially if he is able to find constant success with his power.
The Pirates hold their next selection at pick 96th when the draft resumes for the third through 10th rounds take place.
