The San Diego Padres Draft a SS with 8th Round Selection (Olivier Basabe)
Today was an exciting day for the future of the San Diego Padres.
The middle rounds are what can make or break a franchise. The team had eight selections today and it is safe to say they attained their goal of collecting high-ceiling prospects that fit the mold of what they want from young players.
It is no secret that the team has had a glaring weakness at shortstop for a long time.
With the 228th selection, the Padres took Olivier Basabe out of Faulkner University. The Venezuelan native is 5′ 11″ and 190 lbs and looks to be a solid contributor at shortstop.
He has a compact stroke from the right side and the ability to use the whole field.
The 20-year-old shortstop has shown great bat speed and athleticism.
He uses a leg kick in his approach which might have to be limited to some degree once he gets some professional guidance.
In this video you get an idea of his skill set. The video is a few years old, but he displays a lot of talent.
The Padres had to have been happy to see him available when the picked in the 8th round.
He adds to the team’s shortstop depth, but he is 20 and should have a leg up on the competition that is set to start the year in Tri-City.
Basabe shows great arm strength from the position and should have no problem staying at shortstop at the next level.
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.