Padres News: Padres Select SS Sanchez & LHP Lauer Back-to-Back in 1st Round
One of the most important drafts in the history of the San Diego Padres is currently taking place. With six picks in the first 85 selections, and a depleted farm system, the Padres need a great draft. Cal Quantrill was selected with the teams first pick (#8 overall) early in the day.
With the teams back-to-back selections, the team chose High School shortstop Hudson Sanchez and Kent State left-handed pitcher Eric Lauer. The pick of Sanchez is a bit of a surprise for the Padres as he wasn’t considered a first round pick by most scouts.
Eric Lauer, who had a 0.69 ERA for Kent State this season, goes to the Friars at No. 25.
— AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) June 10, 2016
The Padres took two strong college arms with a fast track to the major leagues. Lauer has a great chance to be the first pitcher to reach the major leagues from this years draft. He is seasoned and coming off a year at Kent State that was truly record-breaking. He held a 0.62 ERA this past year which is the lowest ERA in Division-1 Collegiate Baseball since 1979.
A.J. Preller also selected a young shortstop who has a very high ceiling. Sanchez has been swinging the wood bat unlike most typical prep athletes. In swinging the lumber he has shown the propensity to barrel up balls and make consistent contact. He will be viewed as a money-saving pick, but he too has a high ceiling.
Padres take prep SS Hudson Sanchez with their 24th pick.
— Dennis Lin (@sdutdennislin) June 10, 2016
Sanchez has quick hands and a decent approach to the ball. He is listed as a shortstop but scouts see him transitioning into third base or even a corner outfield spot. He is equal developmentally with Fernando Tatis Jr and the duo provide a nice offensive future for the Padres. Take a look at this video on this young man.
Lauer is very smooth with his delivery. His motion is repeatable and effective. Most scouts concur that he will move fast through the minor league system. He projects as a #2 pitcher in the rotation. He does nothing spectacular but just gets the job done. His fastball tops out in the low to mid 90’s. He has excellent command of his off speed pitches. See for yourself in this video of Lauer taken four months ago vs Western Michigan.
James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.