With the 12th pick in the draft, the Marlins have selected Canadian first baseman Josh Naylor.
Agents shocked by Naylor pick for the #Marlins. "Unreal" was one's reaction.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) June 9, 2015
Naylor participated in the 2014 Home Run Derby showcase, and was very impressive. He was ranked as the 59th best prospect according to MLB.com, and was not expected to go in the first round. The Marlins will likely try to sign him to an under slot deal because of it.
Despite expecting to go later in the draft, Naylor has some incredible power and could progress quickly throughout the Marlins' minor league system. The Marlins have had a tendency to favorite young arms in the past but the club lacks a notable amount of minor league first base depth. After Gaby Sanchez and Logan Morrison left the organization, Miami has explored external first base possibilities.
Michael Morse is signed to a two-year deal and Justin Bour has had some success but Naylor could prove to be the Marlins' first baseman of the future.
Miami's next selection will come with the 50th pick.