Noboru, a 20 year old out of Lincoln, Nebraska, brings a skill set that Hustlers GM Matt Rectenwald absolutely loves to the table. "Why did we pick Donald here?," mused Rectenwald. "It wasn't really a close decision, to be honest. Donald has some personality traits that set him apart from the rest of the talented prospects available to us at this position. His work ethic is incredible. Donald will not stop working until he becomes the best. He's one of the most intelligent baseball players we've scouted, and though he is "his own guy" and not a leader, he will not be a problem in the clubhouse. While he does care a lot about money, he is extremely loyal."
And then there's his actual baseball skills. Noburu is a natural hitter. He projects to be a potential .350 hitter someday. He won't provide much home run power but should be a good gap hitter as well. HIs defensive skills are slightly above average, and it's easy to see him sticking as a shortstop, though he may also get some exposure to second base in the minor leagues.
Noboru is also said to be a "signability" pick. He's a slot bonus pick and the Hustlers should have no issues signing him to a contract as soon as the draft concludes.
Some observers were shocked that the Hustlers didn't snag the seemingly more talented John Neely with this pick. The Hustlers simply had too many questions about his work ethic and dedication to the game to pull the trigger on him at #10. There were also reports that Neely would be a hard sign, and was demanding well over $3,000,000 as a signing bonus. "Pay your dues, then the money will come," said Rectenwald. "I don't believe in entitlement. It's not a great show of character to come out of high school or college having never spent a minute as a professional player and asking for more money than some MBBA'ers make in one season."