June 1, 2048,
Long Beach, CA
The BBA's 2048 Amateur Draft has concluded, and we're here to take a look at the Surfers picks in the first two rounds. As is tradition when the Surfers have a high draft pick, the draft class was underwhelming. However, there's some potential here in these picks. Let's take a look.
Round/Overall: 1 / 6
RH SP Yoshimatsu Miyauchi
Current: 7/4/5
Potential: 9/6/7
Slider: 5/7
Changeup: 9/10
Knuckleball: 7/10
Velocity: 88-90
With the 6th overall pick, the Surfers took Yoshimatsu Miyauchi, an 18 year old from PlayStation High School. He's properly developed for his age, and projects to be a mid-rotation workhorse. We can't remember the last time the Surfers had a knuckleballer with this potential, but assuming Miyauchi puts it all together, he could be a mainstay in the rotation for many years. His high school coach reports that he leads by example, exhibiting a stellar work ethic and a willingness to listen to coaches and adapt his play as required. Look for Miyauchi to start his professional career in Rookie League for the Cayucos Surf.
OFP: 65 - Mid-Rotation Workhorse
Likely: 50 - 5th Starter
BBA ETA: 2052
Round/Overall: 2 / 47
RH SP James Gilbert
Current: 7/6/8
Potential: 8/6/9
Fastball: 6/7
Slider: 9/9
Changeup: 8/9
Velocity: 90-92
With the 47th overall pick, the Surfers took James Gilbert, a 20 year old from Nike College. He's well developed, and projects to be a mid-rotation starter. At 6'1", 180lbs he's a bit on the small side, but scouts anticipate that there's some ability to improve velocity on his frame. It's no small task for the Surfers' strength and nutrition staff, but if they are able to build him up, some increased velocity could dramatically improve his outlook. As it is, we could see him crack the back end of the big league rotation within a couple of seasons. Of note, he's currently recovering from radial nerve decompression surgery on his elbow. He'll be out for the majority of the Rookie League season, though given his current development, we wouldn't be surprised to see him make a few appearances for Short A Key West in August.
OFP: 60 - Mid-Rotation Starter
Likely: 50 - 5th Starter
BBA ETA: 2051
