:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55221581/usa_today_8660465.0.jpg)
With the eighth overall pick, the Phillies have selected outfielder Adam Haseley from the University of Virginia. In mock drafts, MLB.com and Baseball America had Haseley to be selected with the 8th pick and ESPN.com had him going 7th.
Haseley and first baseman Pavin Smith combined to be a force in the middle of the Virginia lineup this year, with Haseley finishing with an impressive .390/.491/.659 line. Haseley also provided 14 bombs, 56 RBIs, 16 doubles, and 10 steals. Batting from the left side, Haseley has an inside-out swing allowing him to hit to all fields with above average power and good speed.
In the field, Haseley has a good arm that should allow him to stick in center field, or move to either corner spot, depending on the needs of his club. Haseley was one of the highest risers this spring heading into the draft, and his strong showing in his junior season has rewarded him being picked in the first round of this year’s draft.
Haseley should only get better as he continues improving at the plate while also polishing his skills defensively. Take a look at his athleticism here: