2014 MLB Draft - Day 3 Discussion Thread

Seahawks coach Aaron Lewis said five to seven scouts per game would come to examine outfielder Tyler Hill. They usually liked what they saw from the chiseled, 6-foot-1, 225-pound outfielder, who is projected to be picked somewhere within the top 10 rounds when the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft begins Thursday.

Lewis said the Pirates, Red Sox, Royals and Marlins showed the most interest, but every major-league team except the Yankees has contacted him about Hill. The senior projects as a rare five-tool player, with elite ability to run, throw, field, hit for average and hit for power.

Hill's versatility is seen in his statistics – a .432 average with six home runs, 29 RBIs, 30 runs scored and 18 stolen bases during his senior season. Scouts always arrived early to watch him take batting practice before the Seahawks' games.

"He hits for average very well," Lewis said. "He can hit the ball wherever it's pitched. Also, when he needs to, he can hit for power."

Hill was a catcher earlier in his high school career. But when he signed with Wilmington University, Wildcats coach Brian August told Lewis that Hill would become an outfielder in college. So Hill made the move during his final year of high school, as was named a first-team All-State outfielder as the Seahawks went 12-6.

"If he gets the right package, I think he'll sign," Lewis said. "But at the same time, it has to be the right package for him. If not, he has a great fallback in playing at Wilmington University."

Fisher has a solid 6-0, 205 pound frame that is filled out, offering little projection there. He is a below average runner, which is ok as a catcher. Defensively, Fisher has one of the stronger prep arms in the country, is very athletic, and has a good feel for blocking and receiving. He figures to be able to stick at catcher, which helps him significantly. Offensively, Fisher is not as advanced. He shows average power and quick hands, but his contact skills are currently graded out as below average as he has had trouble generating consistent hard contact.

Fisher projects as a defense-first catcher who at worst would be a back-up at the major league level and could develop into a starter if his offense becomes more consistent. Fisher is committed to the University of Virginia, which means signability will impact his draft position.