MLB Draft 2017: Padres select MacKenzie Gore third overall

With the third overall pick, the Padres have selected lefty MacKenzie Gore from Whiteville High School in North Carolina. In mock drafts, MLB.com, ESPN, and Baseball America all had Gore going third.

Committed to East Carolina University, the 18-year-old Gore is considered one of the top high school arms in the country. At 6’2” 180, Gore posted utterly dominant numbers as a junior at Whiteville High School. In 2016, Gore went 12-1 with a 0.08 ERA and 174 strikeouts in 83 1/3 innings.

The left-hander has a fastball that consistently sits at 94, and he also has a curveball that is considered a true plus pitch. Gore also throws a hard slider and changeup giving him a four-pitch arsenal. As a left-hander with good velocity and four pitches, there is no doubt that Gore should develop as a starting pitcher.

Gore’s best qualities include his competitiveness and athleticism. His motion includes a big leg kick and a notable extension on his delivery giving him a deceptive delivery coming from the left side. He’s only 18, so he is likely a significant way away from the Major Leagues.

For more on Mackenzie Gore, check out Chris Cotillo’s Q&A with him here.