2018 MLB Draft: Arizona Diamondbacks select Matt McLain with 25th overall selection

With the 25th pick in the 2018 draft, the Arizona Diamondbacks selected prep shortstop Matt McLain from Beckman High School in California. In recent mock drafts, McLain was projected to go 25th by Keith Law and unmocked by Baseball America.

McLain is the definition of sum of all parts. His only tool is his speed that grades as just plus, 60 overall. While he may not have any loud tools, he has no real holes in his game either. He’s a decent defender with an above average arm, the ability to impact a game on the bases, and offensive ability. It’s the offensive ability that makes scouts take notice as his hit tool and power both project to average. There is a chance he has to move off of shortstop defensively, but he can be an impact bat at second or short, and has enough potential to hold his own at third with the bat as well.

McLain is committed to play for UCLA, and while he may not he cheap to buy out of his commitment he has drawn a comp by MLB.com to Alex Bregman with more speed at the same age. They got themselves a talented prep shortstop with great makeup and a well rounded game that doesn’t have any holes. That’s a player worth paying up for.