Toronto Blue Jays: Breaking down each 2020 MLB Draft pick
Zach Britton
Seeing Zach Britton’s name get called certainly drew some attention but the outfielder is in no way related to the closer who has some history with the Blue Jays.
This is the pick Toronto will likely look to sign below slot value considering they have a couple of players looking to get above slot value. He was a top recruit for Louisville as a catcher before making the move to the outfield.
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Before the pandemic ended the college season, Britton slashed .322/.446/.542 but isn’t a big home run hitter. He did see his hitting improve when he got moved to left field.
"“Zach was ready to play and that’s something we take a lot of pride in our program,” head coach Dan McDonnell said about Britton. “He’s got his degree already and he is ready to play. He’s a professional and works hard.”"
In 279 at-bats, Britton had a career .280 batting average with seven home runs, 60 RBI, 24 doubles and 39 walks and was more impressive in late-game situations and off the bench.
Via BA, Britton "has a pretty lefthanded swing with good bat speed and some impressive exit velocity numbers" and "his power has been more doubles than over-the-fence." Sounds like a likely LF
— Shi Davidi (@ShiDavidi) June 12, 2020
He has the potential to improve his power at the plate and a big part of that could come with a change to his swing as they mentioned during the draft broadcast. The Blue Jays likely want to capitalize on the potential he has at the plate which was evident with him leading the NCAA in doubles before the pandemic hit.
All in all, the Blue Jays had a decent couple of days based on the perceptions of the picks but the team will need to work on maximizing the potential these picks can have if they want to live up to the high praise they received.
Next. There will be baseball in 2020 but at what cost?. dark
What did you think about the Blue Jays draft? Which pick are you looking forward to watching? Let us know in the comments below.