2018 MLB Draft: The Milwaukee Brewers select Brice Turang with the 21st overall pick

With the 21st pick in the 2018 MLB Draft, the Milwaukee Brewers selected high school shortstop Brice Turang out of Santiago High School in California. Turang projected in recent mock drafts to go 26th by Keith Law of ESPN and 18th by Baseball America.

Turang was considered by some to be in contention early on for the top pick in the draft due to his history of performing as an underclassman and his well-rounded skill set. However, that changed after he under-performed in the summer showcase tournaments in the eyes of some and failing to really separate himself from the rest of the prep position players in the class. He does really have a tool that is his calling card, but he is above average to plus in just about everything.

Turang’s best trait is likely his hit tool which plays up because he is a plus runner. He has a line drive swing and advanced approach at the plate. While some don’t see much in the way of power coming, others look at his 6’1 lean frame and see him having the ability to add some strength without bulking up too much to stay at shortstop. He has above average ability in the field and a strong arm and while he has his doubters in terms of being a shortstop long-term, he has the foundation to be a good one.

The knocks on Turang are almost unfair as he has been the victim of unrealistic expectations for the last couple of years. He is still one of the best prep players in the draft class and has some projectability, but some wanted to see him go out their and crush all opposition which he hasn’t done over the last year.