White Sox First Day Draft Picks Overview
White Sox Draft Catcher, Bolster Pitching in first Day of the Draft
With the first day of the MLB First Year Player Draft now complete, here is a review of the three White Sox picks. All three picks were from the collegiate ranks, with only one being a bat.
1st round (10th overall)
Zack Collins C-University of Miami (FL)
Collins is a catcher at the moment, who has an advanced bat. The big question with him is will the White Sox keep him behind the plate. There are questions about his defensive skills. He led the nation in walks this season (67), and brings power (12 home runs). If the White Sox don’t keep him behind the plate, Collins could end up as a designated hitter.
1st round (26th overall)
Zack Burdi RHP-University of Louisville
Burdi was the closer this season for the Cardinals. His routinely hits the upper 90’s with his fastball that has late life. His slider is a plus pitch, however his change-up needs work. As of now he belongs in the bullpen, if he is able to improve his change-up it is possible that Burdi becomes a starting pitcher. At worst, Burdi could be a solid late-inning reliever for the White Sox.
2nd round (49th overall)
Alec Hansen RHP-University of Oklahoma
This is a very interesting pick. There was an opportunity for Hansen to be a very high pick going into the 2016 season. He had serious consistency issues this season for the Sooners, and was removed from the rotation for a short time.
With all of that said, Hansen has a huge upside considering he has big time stuff (high 90’s fastball, plus slider). There are issues with his command and consistency. If the White Sox develop him, they could have an ace.
Draft Analysis
Overall, it makes perfect sense for the White Sox to take a college bat with their first pick. Collins will be the #1 catcher in the White Sox system the second he signs, he was a logical selection. The main question for the White Sox will be how long they keep Collins at catcher.
There may have been some questions about the Burdi pick. A potential late inning stud is a good pick, even in the first round. Burdi could end up a starter with some development.
Hansen is a bit of a project, but could end up an ace with development. If he has control issues but shows potential in the minors, he could become trade bait.
These are only the White Sox top three selections. There are many hidden gems in the later rounds. The MLB Draft is an inexact science. I wouldn’t agonize if you don’t like the White Sox first few picks. Plenty of chances left White Sox fans.
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