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With their third pick in the 2017 MLB draft, the Cleveland Indians selected Johnathan Rodriguez, a 17-year-old corner outfielder from Puerto Rico.
LGT readers on Friday selected Rodriguez as their 20th ranked prospect in the Indians minor league system.
Rodriguez was the youngest player in the 2017 MLB draft. Selected out of the Carlos Beltran Baseball Academy, his best assets other than his age are his throwing arm and his projectability.
The 18-year-old debuted in the Arizona Rookie League with the AZL Indians, where he slashed .250/.381/.333 in 31 games played.
Rodriguez hasn’t displayed power yet, but his 6-foot-3, 180 pound frame has the potential to develop some pop as he fills out and gets older.
Perhaps most impressive in his professional debut was his patience at the plate. Rodriguez walked 21 times while striking out 23.
The switch-hitter will likely begin the 2018 season in Low-A Mahoning Valley. After a full offseason working with the Indians trainers, it will be very interesting to see how he performs.