(NOTE: Updated on July 21st)
Five questions per. That was all I gave myself.
In this follow-up article about the Indians’ 2007 draft I find out how Cleveland’s unsigned draft choices are doing in their summer leagues, what their strengths are, where they are in their negotiations with the Indians, what they think their chances are of signing with the Cleveland before August 15th and more…in just 5 questions each. Well, some of them were multiple part questions!
Before I get started I want to thank all the draftees who were kind enough to talk to me and all the people who helped me get in contact with them.
All of the guys who haven’t yet signed (and the three who signed last Monday) from the Indians’ 2007 draft are HS seniors, junior college players or college sophomores or juniors at 4-year schools. All of these kids have the option to play in college next year if they don’t sign. The guys with the most leverage in negotiations are obviously the younger ones who have the most years left in college, starting with Chris Jones, our 15th round pick, who can re-enter the draft next year after spending a year atSt. Petersburg Community College in Florida
Until they announced the signings of Joey Mahalic, Josh Judy and Brian Juhl at the beginning of this week, the Indians had signed the fewest 2007 draft picks of any team in the major leagues. As I indicated in my previous article (Safe!), I think this is by design. Most of the Indians’ unsigned draft choices appear to be summer draft-and-follows. That is, the Indians will scout these guys on their summer teams and then make them bonus offers as we approach the August 15th deadline to sign players. Most of these summer draft-and-follows who sign with the Indians probably won’t play professionally this summer and will have their first exposure to professional baseball in a mini-camp to be held shortly after the August 15th deadline and then, this fall, in the instructional league inWinter Haven , Florida
Not all of our draftees are considering turning pro at this point in their baseball careers. I learned that some of them, like OF Bobby Coyle (U. Arizona scholarship), LHP Eric Jokisch (Northwestern) and RHP Stihl Sowers (East Carolina) are accepting college baseball scholarships instead of signing out of high school and a number of our later round, college draftees, including junior catchers Travis Howell, Doug Hogan and Doug Pickens, sophomore infielder Scott Savastano and junior closer Daniel Edwards have already decided not to sign and to return to college next year. Kyle Leiendecker, a 6’2” 175’ LH HS pitcher fromIndiana Indiana University
Eighteen of our draft choices (including Walter Diaz, who told me his agent had worked out a deal and was signing soon) have already signed. A couple of other pitchers (including our 4th round draft pick, T.J. McFarland, see his interview below) have said they have a deal worked out but have not signed yet.
For the rest of the Indians’ unsigned draft picks it appears that each of them is still open to signing with the Tribe if the bonus money is right. For some, this may mean a sizeable bonus as a number of these guys are having pretty good summers and have great college scholarships waiting for them if they don’t sign. Here are all the stats I have been able to dig up (through July 14, 2007) from the summer leagues some of these guys are playing in.
NOTE: Cawiezell has 8 saves in 9 chances and was named to play in the Northwoods mid-season All-star game. Luce has two saves. Judy and Kuhn were named to the North team in the Valley League All-star game. Shaeffer Hall was tearing up the Northwoods league in three starts sandwiched around his orientation at Kansas University (where he has accepted a baseball scholarship) until he suffered a mild strain in his elbow that caused him to shut it down for the rest of the summer.
Below are the interviews with the guys I could get in touch with who were still interested in signing with the Indians. Matt Hague (11th round, Hague article with answers to some of the questions I would have asked him) and Cole St. Clair (7th round), declined to be interviewed during their contract negotiations with the Indians.
I was able to interview 22 draft choices (including McFarland) who are still considering signing with the Indians. The questions in each interview appear in bold and the answers in normal text. The order simply represents the order in which these guys were drafted.
T. J. McFarland – 6’3”, 190’ -LHP– Stagg HS,Palos Heights , IL
Committed to theUniversity of Missouri
1. Are you playing summer ball and, if so, how is that going? I am playing for the Illinois Sparks, the same team I have played for in the past. It is mostly weekend tournaments and I get my work in during the week to stay in shape.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what can you tell us about your fastball velocity increase? My command of my pitches is my biggest strength. I throw a fastball, a curve, a slider and a changeup. It’s interesting, scouts told me in January they thought I could throw 93. I think playing basketball this winter (I almost didn’t play so I could work on my baseball) has made a big difference in my leg strength. (NOTE: T. J. throws 91-92 and hits 93 mph).
3. Tell us about your arm injury last year and how it affected your prospect status. It was just tendonitis. I rehabbed it and haven’t had any problems this year. It’s fine. I guess scouts had mentioned early on in my high school career that when I graduated I could get drafted but it was so far away it never really sank in.
4. In your local paper (Orland Park Prairie) you were quoted as saying that you expected to sign right away with the Indians. What happened? The plan was to have me sign immediately after the draft and get down to the Gulf Coast League Indians right away to get acclimated to living away from home (the longest I have ever been away from home is probably a week) and get some innings in. The problem was that no over-slot bonuses were being paid in the period right after the draft. It seems like everyone is waiting for the first team to get an over slot bonus approved by Major League Baseball and then a number of teams will be more willing to try.
5. What are the Indians’ plans for you now? We have agreed on a bonus which is over slot. The goal seems now to be to get me signed and toWinter Haven
Chris Jones – 6’2”, 165’ -LHP– Gaither HS,Tampa , FL–Committed to St. Petersburg Cincinnati , OH
1. How is summer ball going? It’s going well. Area scout Mike Soper has been to see me a couple of times and he confirmed that I was going to pitch this Saturday (July 7th) because I think a number of Cleveland people are going to be at the game.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what has your fastball velocity (average and high) been this summer? My strength is that I throw strikes, have good control and a good curveball. My fastball velocity averages 88-89, touching 91 mph.
3. Are the Indians trying to sign you right now or did they say they were going to scout you and then make a bonus offer later? They are going to scout me this summer and make an offer probably more towards August 15th.
4. Based on what the scouts told you what round did you think you would be drafted in? I had no clue since I was injured early in the season. I was surprised when I was drafted as high as I was.
5. Based on what you now know, what is the percent chance that you will sign with the Indians before August 15th? I really don’t know. It depends on the bonus they are offering.
Miles Morgan – 6’4, 225’, RHP – Sophomore –Texas
Miles missed almost the entire season with a shoulder injury and the Indians have been known in recent years for selecting pitchers who are injured as they have an excellent record on rehabbing these guys. Miles will also most likely be able to get a medical red-shirt and so would still be a sophomore in college eligibility in the 2008 draft.
1. I know you were injured and missed most of this season and are now going through rehab. How's that going? My rehab is going great. I have been throwing for about a month now and everything is starting to fall in place with mechanics and arm strength.
3. The Indians have a great track record for rehabbing injured pitchers. Are you aware of that and will that impact the decision you make? I am aware ofCleveland
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Well, being hurt and only pitching 4 innings this year I did not expect to be drafted at all…well, maybe in the late, late rounds. When I received the call I was very shocked and thankful because the honor of being drafted and with the Indians taking a chance that high makes me feel good.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? My main focus right now is to get healthy and 100% because if I’m not 100% then I am not helping the Indians or myself.
Jared Clark – 6’4, 195’, OF/RHP – Junior – Cal St.Fullerton (21st round)
Jared missed the entire season with a torn ACL. He will also most likely be able to get a medical red-shirt and so would still be a junior in college eligibility in the 2008 draft.
1. I know you were injured this season. How is your ACL rehab going, are you playing on a summer league team and, if so, which one in which league and how is that going? My rehab is going great. I have been throwing for about a month now and everything is starting to fall in place with mechanics and arm strength. My six months date is coming up on the 9th of July so that is exciting. I think I am going to be cleared to hit next week with my physical therapist and that is something that I have been waiting for for a long time. No summer ball for me. I will not be cleared in time for that.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I have not talked with the Indians that much because I believe they are waiting until we get closer to my recovery and closer to the deadline.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Based on what scouts told me before the draft I definitely did not think I was going to be taken in the 21st round, I was thinking more of late 40s, so (being drafted in the 21st round) was pretty surprising to me. It made me feel pretty good.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I do not have an answer for you yet for on this question. I am not fully recovered and have not talked to the Indians much.
Shaeffer Hall – 6’0”, 180’, LHP – Freshman - Jefferson (MO) College (23rd round).
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I was playing inDuluth Duluth Duluth
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? I get a lot of ground balls and work ahead in the count with good control and command. I throw a fastball, a curveball and a changeup. My fastball usually sits pretty solidly at 88-89 mph.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I am being scouted as a summer draft-and-follow. The Indians also saw me play during my college season.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Since I was a draft-and-follow last year with the Rangers, they owned my rights until a week before this year’s draft and other scouts didn’t really talk to me. So, I really had no idea what the scouts were thinking about where I would be drafted.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. I don’t know. I haven’t talked to the Indians for a while. Besides Mr. Stahl being my manager, the Indians did come out toward the end of my time inDuluth
Adam Zornes – 6’0”, 215’, C – Junior – Rice (drafted in the 24th round)
Adam got a late start playing in theCape . During the latter part of the season he was first round pick Joe Savery’s catcher when Savery pitched on Sundays for Rice.
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I have been playing for a couple of weeks now with the Bourne Braves of the Cape Cod League. So far I have been hitting the ball well. The Indians asked me to come up here and work on some things with my hitting.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? My strength is my catching. I have a good arm, am a solid defender (NOTE: his pop times are in the range of 1.8 to 2.0). Offensively, I have power potential and the Indians see that.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? Summer draft and follow.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? I talked to a few teams when the scouts came down to Rice to interview us but I really wasn’t sure.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. I think there is a pretty good chance of me signing. I saw the Indians right before I came up to theCape when I caught Cole St. Clair when he threw a bullpen for the Indians’ area scout and the scouting director. I talked to the scouting director and he said they were seriously interested in signing me.
Bryce Brentz – 6’0”, 185’, RHP – South Doyle HS, Knoxville, TN (30th round).
NOTE: I talked to Bryce on Thursday (July 19) and he said he is still waiting for the Indians’ offer.
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for the Knoxville Yard Dogs and we just got back from a wood bat tournament in East Cobb (GA). Indians’ scout Mr. Chuck Bartlett saw me there and has pretty much stayed in touch with me from before the draft to now.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? I have a fresh arm. I haven’t pitched that much and, for the most part, I was a closer on our HS team, playing mostly in the outfield but pitching in a starting role when our two regular starters couldn’t start. I hit 94 mph a couple of times at the end of my HS season and also this summer. My normal fastball sits at 92 mph pretty consistently. The Indians talked to me about having me start for awhile but eventually turning me into a closer.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I am being scouted as a summer draft-and-follow. Mr. Bartlett is coming up to talk to my family in the next week or so.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? A number of teams (Marlins, Braves, Devil Rays, Padres and Brewers) talked to me about being an outfielder. Only the Yankees and the Indians talked to me about being a pitcher and, eventually, a closer and the Yankees called me after the first day of draft about what I would accept if they made me a 6th round pick (essentially slightly above slot). I think the Indians might also give me a chance to hit. After talking to the scouts before the draft I thought I would be a later round pick, maybe in the high 20s or low 30s.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. Right now I would say 50-50, depending on the bonus offer. My parents and I have talked a lot about signing versus going to college and decided to factor into my bonus request what my college expenses would be. That way we can put that money away up front and I can start college when I want once I am done playing. If I don’t sign I have heard a lot of great things about the Middle Tennessee program and I would love playing there if things don’t work out. Either way, I will be fully dedicated.
Jason Hessler – 6’3”, 220’, RHP – Junior -St. Joseph
Jason hurt his shoulder and had shoulder surgery in the fall. He missed his entire junior season and is currently on the disabled list for his summer team, theMaryland
1. I know you were injured and the 2007 season and are now going through rehab. How's that going? I spent the entire winter and spring rehabbing but expect to start playing in the next couple of weeks for the Maryland Orioles. That depends on the coach, however, as he tends to be careful in using pitchers coming off of injuries.
3. The Indians have a great track record for rehabbing injured pitchers. Are you aware of that and will that impact the decision you make? My college coach, Shawn Penders, used to work for the Indians and he told me of their good record at rehabbing injured pitchers. I had not heard about that before. That is a plus for the Indians, in my opinion.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? The Indians have been in contact with me through their area scout. They told me I would be drafted late as a summer draft and follow. Their area scout called and said he would be down to see me play once I get off the disabled list.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? There is a pretty good chance of me signing, I think. I really want to sign and get my pro career started.
Joey Mahalic – 6’3”, 205’ RHP/3B – Wilson HS,Portland , OR
Committed toOregon State
NOTE: The Indians announced after this story ran the first time that Joey signed for a package (bonus and scholarship) that his father said was over $200,000. Joey is reporting to the GCL Indians where he will be in the starting rotation.
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for the Northwest Stars--- in a wood bat league of college baseball players. After the draft, I pitched 5 innings in the state of Oregon High School All-Star Game against the senior high school all-stars: I allowed no earned runs and was awarded MVP Pitcher of the Tournament. Then I pitched in the state ofOregon
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Best fastball so far is 93 mph (he hit 94 mph on June 27th, the day after the interview!). I allowed only one extra base hit the entire high school season--it was a double. My strengths are my control with great ball movement and competitiveness. No one outranks me as a competitor.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians will observe and then discuss signing later.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I would be a high draft choice in the first 5 rounds.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? The door is still open for the Indians. If they like what they see this summer, my joining the Indians will be strongly considered.
Tyler Kuhn – 5’10”, 185’, SS/2B – Sophomore –West Virginia U.
1. How’s summer ball going for Luray? Great. I am happy about my hitting (hitting .300) and felt good about going to the all-star game.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? No one tool is above average. I am the typical SS/2B,leadoff/#2 hole hitter. I cover a lot of ground on defense. At the all-star game there were three Indians’ scouts present. They timed me in the 60 yard dash at 6.68.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians wanted me to play as a summer draft-and-follow. They said that they wouldn’t have enough at-bats for me on their rookie league teams this summer and didn’t want me to get into a situation where my pro career was a short one because I couldn’t develop because I wasn’t playing.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? The Indians were the team that was on me the most, all the way from last fall. They called me when the draft was in the early 20s (rounds) to ask me about my signability. [NOTE: as a draft-eligible sophomore Tyler as a lot of leverage as he has two years left in college if he chooses not to sign this summer].
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th and will getting a chance to play in the same organization with Adam White (9th round 2007 draft) and Justin Jenkins (5th year senior signed before the draft) from your college influence your decision? I want a chance to start pro ball and it is not about getting a large bonus. I am just looking for slot money. If we can get that done I want to be a Cleveland Indian. No, while it would be great to play with Whitey and Justin again that aspect of it won’t influence my decision. Those guys are great but they have already started their pro careers and I need to decide what is best for me.
Josh Judy – 6’4”, 195’, RHP –Junior - Indiana Tech U. (drafted in the 34th round).
NOTE: The Indians announced that Josh had signed after this story ran the first time. Josh told me he will report to the GCL Indians.
1. I notice you are playing summer ball but have only made 3 starts. What is up with that? Also, were you heavily recruited out of HS? Yes, I am playing for Haymarket Senators in the Valley League. I started a little late because I was waiting to see what the results of the draft were before starting summer ball. I actually made my 4th start yesterday (July 2nd). On being recruited, no. Indiana Tech was the only 4-year school to offer me a scholarship after they saw me at a summer showcase my coach put together.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Mental toughness. My high fastball velocity is 94-95 mph and I average 91-92.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians said after the draft they would scout me this summer. They said that, right then, they didn’t have a lot of roster spots available on the rookie league teams, especially since they had one less team this year. Their area scout has been to see me but it seemed like there would be more Indians people at my next start (Thursday, July 12th) so something might be happening soon. (NOTE: He signed two days after that start.)
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I'd go in the top 20 rounds.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. It all depends on what they offer. I haven’t thought yet what type of bonus it would take to sign me.
Brian Juhl – 6’1”, 210’, C – Junior –Stanford U.
Brian is a switch hitting catcher. Hmmmm! Do we know any other switch hitting catchers? Brian also knows a Stanford volleyball player who I coached in club volleyball so we had more than just baseball to talk about.
NOTE: The Indians announced after this story ran that Brian had signed. I caught up with him atLake County Lake County
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for Oahu in theHawaii Hawaii
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? My strength is my defensive game including handling pitchers and throwing. Offensively, when I get my swing going from both sides, I can be a good hitter.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I think the Indians were planning on me being a summer draft-and-follow. I talked to the Indians’ area scout when I got toHawaii
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? Anywhere from the 8th to the 14th or 15th rounds.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. I would say probably 50-50 at this point. I am ready for pro ball and would like to sign. The area scout said that we will be talking in the next week or so. I wouldn’t mind going back to Stanford at all. It’s a great school.
P. J. Zocchi – 5’11”, 210’, RHP –Junior - Clemson (drafted in the 36th round).
1. How is summer ball going? I actually just got up to Harwich (Cape Cod League). I plan to start throwing in games this weekend (July 14-15) as a reliever and then, after about a week, I hope to be starting.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what has your fastball velocity (average and high) been this summer? My strength is that I am aggressive and throw strikes. I also have been able to overcome adversity (NOTE: He had Tommy John surgery his freshman year). My fastball velocity averages 88-91, touching 92 mph.
3. Are the Indians trying to sign you right now or did they say they were going to scout you and then make a bonus offer later? They have made me a bonus offer that was acceptable but said they didn’t have enough innings for me in the minors because all their rosters are full. They suggested I come up to theCape and pitch. They told me if I impress them the offer could go up but it won’t go down. My plans right now are to sign closer to August 15th or maybe sooner if I decide to shut it down a little early at Harwich.
4. Based on what the scouts told you what round did you think you would be drafted in? At the beginning of the year I was a starter at Clemson and I was thinking top 12 rounds. Then I got moved out of the rotation and I knew that if I was drafted it would be in the late rounds.
5. Based on what you now know, what is the percent chance that you will sign with the Indians before August 15th? Very high. As I said, I thought their bonus offer was acceptable when they made it and we’ll see if I can increase it with a good performance in theCape .
Dean Kiekhefer – 6’0”, 155’, LHP –Oldham County HS , Kentucky
Committed toUniversity of Louisville
NOTE: I talked to Dean on Saturday. He said that the Indians’ area scout had been to see him pitch and John Mirabelli had been to see him on a separate occasion. They told him on Tuesday they would be in touch with him in a few days but, as of Saturday morning, he had not heard anything.
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for Evansville Razorbacks (www.evansvilleblacksox.com/razorbacks.html) starting about July 1st.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Best fastball so far is 92 mph but normally sits at 86-89. My strength would be my assortment of different pitches I can throw for strikes (99 K to 8 BB in senior year). I have 3 different fastballs, 2 sliders, a curve and a changeup.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians will scout me withEvansville
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I'd go somewhere between round 6 and 12. I think where I was drafted may be partly because of the draft slotting system and the bonus we were asking for. Teams are offering to pay for college after I am done playing but we also are looking for some money in addition to that.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. Right now I would say it would be 15-20% based on where I was drafted and the bonus that we are talking about.
Johnny Williams – 6’2”, 170’, RHP –Junior –Tampa
Johnny pitched out of the bullpen later in the year forTampa
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I haven’t been playing yet but I am trying to play starting later this month so the Indians can get a chance to see me play. I am trying to work something out with the Bourne Braves of the Cape Cod League. [NOTE: Same team Indians’ draft choice catcher Adam Zornes is playing for.]
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Best fastball so far is 93 mph but I normally sit at 89-90. About my strengths, I am a fierce competitor. My fastball is my best pitch but I also throw a curve and a slider.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians have told me all along that I am a summer draft and follow.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Early in the season I was thinking I might be drafted in the top 10 rounds. Then I had some elbow soreness (classified as a minor strain, my elbow feels fine now in the bullpen sessions I have pitched this summer) and I think I dropped as a result of that.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I want to sign. As long as I get a reasonable bonus offer I think I would sign. It is not all about the bonus for me. I want to play professionally. If the bonus is comparable to where I was drafted I think there is a high percentage chance of me signing.
Dallas Cawiezell – 6’6”, 255’, RHP –Junior –Valparaiso
Dallas was the closer for the last two years at Valpo and is closing this summer for Alexandria
NOTE: I talked toDallas
1. How is summer ball going forAlexandria Alexandria
2. How do you like closing, what do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? I like closing. I try to simplify the 9th inning as just being three outs like any other 3 outs. My strength is being able to spot my fastball and my confidence in my ability, even in this league, where there are a lot of good pitchers. I work off my fastball. I am basically a two-pitch pitcher right now: fastball and splitter but I do have a get-me-over slider. My splitter is basically up and down but does drift in a little to lefties. I normally sit at 90-92 with my fastball and I have been up to 93-94 mph. NOTE: He hit 95 in the Northwoods League All-Star game and struck out the two guys he faced.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians (scout Derek Ross) have told me all along that I am a summer draft and follow. I think the Indians will be sending a cross checker up to the Northwoods All-Star game Wednesday or a little later this season after the All-star break to watch me pitch.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Interestingly, the Indians didn’t contact me much early in the season. It was mostly the Twins and the Mets and both said that I would be drafted late so I wasn’t surprised when I was drafted in the 40th round, just a little surprised it was by the Indians. The Indians did call me about coming in for a pre-draft workout but I was already on my way toAlexandria
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I want to play pro baseball. Depending on the bonus I think it is 50/50 right now. I won’t sell my family short by taking a small bonus but I am not all about the money, either.
NOTE: I asked Dallas, who also was a hitter at Valpo and hit early in the year for Alexandria when he wasn’t pitching (he was actually in the Northwoods League homerun hitting contest before the all-star game), about facing Shaeffer Hall, another Indians’ draftee, when Shaeffer was pitching at Duluth in the same summer league. His comment was that Shaeffer had some nasty stuff the timeAlexandria
Tommy Luce – 6’6”, 200’ RHP – Freshman - Seminole St. Col. (OK) – (drafted in the 41st round).
NOTE: Tommy is no longer listed on theDuluth
1. How is your summer going playing for theDuluth
2. How do you like pitching out of the bullpen and what is your fastball velocity when pitching out of the 'pen? I love pitching out of the bullpen. My velocity out of the bullpen is around 88-91, sometimes touching 92.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians told me that they wanted me to come up and play in the Northwoods League and they would watch me and maybe talk to me about an offer by August 15th.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in Based on what I was told before the draft, I was planning on going in the top 20 rounds. I guess things didn't work out like they were supposed to, but that's how the draft works sometimes.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? The way things are looking right now, I'm probably going to go back to school for another year. But things could change in the next month.
Bryce Tafelski – 6’0”, 185’, OF – HS Senior – Scholarship to UCSanta Barbara
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing again this summer for the California Wahoos, a team coached by Indians’ scout and cross checker Vince Sagisi.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player and have the Indians indicated they will keep you as a catcher if you sign? My strengths are mostly defensive right now, with my pop times (time from the ball hitting the catcher’s glove to the throw getting to the infielder’s glove on a stolen base attempt) and my agility behind the plate. Yes, they plan to keep me at catcher if I sign.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? Mr. Sagisi said that the Indians would make an offer by the end of July after seeing me play a little more.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? I thought I'd be drafted around the 10th round.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. At the beginning of the summer I really was looking forward to signing. Right now I would say probably 50-50 depending on the bonus offer. Playing in college has probably entered my mind a little more as the summer has gone on.
Ryan Royster – 6’1”, 170’, OF – Junior - UC Davis – (drafted in the 44th round).
2. What do you think your strengths are as a player? I am blessed with good speed and a desire to win
3. Have the Indians indicated they wanted to sign you as soon as possible or are they going to scout you and make a bonus offer closer to the August 15th deadline? I think it will be closer to the 15th which will give them a chance to see all that I can offer to the organization.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I would be a top 15 rounder.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what are the chances that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I am happy with my performance so far, but it is a much more complex process and I can only stay positive and continue to stay focused on my goal of being a Cleveland Indian.
Duluth Dallas and he has a great arm and would be a good addition to the organization (Cleveland
Dan Evatt – 6’3”, 200’, OF – HS Senior – Grapevine (TX) HS – (drafted in the 45th round).
I did not actually get to interview Dan but I received information through his school district that he is still negotiating with the Indians and expects to make a decision, not surprisingly, close to the August 15th deadline.
Brock Simpson – 6’2”, 208’, OF – Junior -Kansas
1. How is your summer league ball going? I was playing forEl Dorado
2. What do you think your strengths are as a player? I am what they refer to as a tools player, even though the scouts think I could wind up in LF as a professional. Maybe they don’t think my arm is strong enough for RF. I run a 6.7 60 yard dash and I talked to the MLB scout from their scouting service and he said I was a 60 hitter with 50 power (on the scouting 20-80 rating system). He said I projected to hit about .275 in the majors with some power.
3. Have the Indians indicated they wanted to sign you as soon as possible or are they going to scout you and make a bonus offer closer to the August 15th deadline? I wanted to sign right away but Mr. Abney said they didn’t have any spots on their rookie league teams since they dropped a team this year and had a bunch of guys in extended spring training. He said that if a roster spot opened up they might sign me early but now I think it will be closer to the 15th which will give them a chance to scout me once I recover. He said if they sign me late they will just send me to the instructional league in the fall.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Various scouts told me anywhere from rounds 10-20. I liked that the Indians didn’t give me a round. They just said they were interested in me and would find a round they could draft me in.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what are the chances that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? For me, money is not an issue so I think the chances are pretty good. Kids dream of playing professional baseball and I just want a chance to show my skills. I am confident if I get that chance I will make the most of it, regardless of what the bonus is.
Matt Willard – 5’10”, 175’, SS – Junior -Arkansas
1. How is your summer league ball going?Wisconsin
2. What do you think your strengths are as a player? I am a leadoff guy, a table setter. My job is to get on base and steal some bases. My time in the 60 yard dash is around 6.7. My arm strength is good and I have played SS all my life and am confident in my ability to play SS.
3. Have the Indians indicated they wanted to sign you as soon as possible or are they going to scout you and make a bonus offer closer to the August 15th deadline? The Indians have told me I am a summer draft-and-follow. Mr. Abney said they will talk to me later in the season about an offer.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I expected to be a late round pick.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what are the chances that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I would like to sign. I told the Indians when I was drafted that I really wanted to sign and, if they offer me a contract I expect to sign it.
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Well, that’s it! Now we wait to see how many of these guys are actually offered professional contracts and how many think the opportunity (and, let’s face it, the bonus) is right for them to begin their professional careers. I think that you will see the Indians sign a bunch of guys in the days leading up to the August 15th deadline. How many they will sign is still unknown but I think the number will surprise the average fan of the baseball draft. It could easily be 8-10 or more and may actually include a couple of surprises. That is, they may sign a couple of guys who weren’t drafted by anyone this year but whom the Indians scouted in the Northwoods or Cape Cod League, very similar to the way the Indians acquired Brian Barton a couple of years ago. Which good players are left who were not drafted this year? I don’t know and, from the response I received from BaseballAmerica
Only a couple of real questions remain, now:
(1) Will the Indians be able to sign Cole St. Clair? When I look at what Jonathan Holt (5th round, $138,000) and Bo Greenwell (6th round, $123,000) signed for and the vibes I am getting from the whole situation, I get the feeling that the Indians, initially, are holding close to the slot line with St. Clair. I would imagine he would be disappointed with that offer given that some publications were saying at the beginning of the season that he might be a first- or second-round pick. I predicted in my previous article that the Indians would first try to stay within slot and then significantly up their offer to St. Clair as we get closer to August 15th and I hold to that prediction. Will they offer him enough money to sign? Right now, I think it is a shade less than 50-50.
(2) Who else will the Indians make offers to? I don’t think they will offer contracts to all the remaining draftees. I have my ideas on who they will make reasonable offers to based on bonus demands and how those guys have played this summer but I think you might be able to figure it out based on the interviews and statistics above.
I think this Indians’ draft class is intriguing. Certainly John Mirabelli and his staff took an interesting approach to this draft. I hope we get a chance to see a lot of these guys sign and then develop in the minors for the Indians. The more we sign the better a chance we have of finding a later-round gem.
More in my next article which will analyze how the Indians did in the 2007 draft after all the dust of August 15th clears.
Five questions per. That was all I gave myself.
In this follow-up article about the Indians’ 2007 draft I find out how Cleveland’s unsigned draft choices are doing in their summer leagues, what their strengths are, where they are in their negotiations with the Indians, what they think their chances are of signing with the Cleveland before August 15th and more…in just 5 questions each. Well, some of them were multiple part questions!
Before I get started I want to thank all the draftees who were kind enough to talk to me and all the people who helped me get in contact with them.
All of the guys who haven’t yet signed (and the three who signed last Monday) from the Indians’ 2007 draft are HS seniors, junior college players or college sophomores or juniors at 4-year schools. All of these kids have the option to play in college next year if they don’t sign. The guys with the most leverage in negotiations are obviously the younger ones who have the most years left in college, starting with Chris Jones, our 15th round pick, who can re-enter the draft next year after spending a year at
Until they announced the signings of Joey Mahalic, Josh Judy and Brian Juhl at the beginning of this week, the Indians had signed the fewest 2007 draft picks of any team in the major leagues. As I indicated in my previous article (Safe!), I think this is by design. Most of the Indians’ unsigned draft choices appear to be summer draft-and-follows. That is, the Indians will scout these guys on their summer teams and then make them bonus offers as we approach the August 15th deadline to sign players. Most of these summer draft-and-follows who sign with the Indians probably won’t play professionally this summer and will have their first exposure to professional baseball in a mini-camp to be held shortly after the August 15th deadline and then, this fall, in the instructional league in
Not all of our draftees are considering turning pro at this point in their baseball careers. I learned that some of them, like OF Bobby Coyle (U. Arizona scholarship), LHP Eric Jokisch (Northwestern) and RHP Stihl Sowers (East Carolina) are accepting college baseball scholarships instead of signing out of high school and a number of our later round, college draftees, including junior catchers Travis Howell, Doug Hogan and Doug Pickens, sophomore infielder Scott Savastano and junior closer Daniel Edwards have already decided not to sign and to return to college next year. Kyle Leiendecker, a 6’2” 175’ LH HS pitcher from
Eighteen of our draft choices (including Walter Diaz, who told me his agent had worked out a deal and was signing soon) have already signed. A couple of other pitchers (including our 4th round draft pick, T.J. McFarland, see his interview below) have said they have a deal worked out but have not signed yet.
For the rest of the Indians’ unsigned draft picks it appears that each of them is still open to signing with the Tribe if the bonus money is right. For some, this may mean a sizeable bonus as a number of these guys are having pretty good summers and have great college scholarships waiting for them if they don’t sign. Here are all the stats I have been able to dig up (through July 14, 2007) from the summer leagues some of these guys are playing in.
Position Players | ||||||||||||
Name, Position | Team/League | AB | R | H | RBI | 2B | 3B | HR | BB | SO | SB | BA |
| Matt Hague, OF/1B | Falmouth/Cape Cod | 91 | 15 | 28 | 14 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 16 | 19 | 2 | .308 |
| Ryan Royster, OF | Brainerd/Northwoods | 61 | 9 | 18 | 8 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 8 | 14 | 8 | .295 |
| Adam Zornes, C | Bourne/Cape Cod | 36 | 6 | 11 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 12 | 0 | .306 |
| Tyler Kuhn, SS | Luray/Valley | 108 | 26 | 33 | 11 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 11 | 15 | 3 | .306 |
| Matt Willard, SS | Wisconsin/Northwoods | 77 | 8 | 13 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 12 | 28 | 1 | .169 |
Pitchers | ||||||||||||
Name, Position | Team/League | G | W | L | IP | H | R | ER | HR | BB | SO | ERA |
| Alexandria/Northwoods | 14 | 1 | 1 | 15 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 28 | 0.00 | |
| Shaeffer Hall, LHSP | Duluth/Northwoods | 3 | 1 | 0 | 23 | 16 | 4 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 19 | 1.56 |
| Josh Judy, RHSP | Haymarket/Valley | 6 | 2 | 3 | 36.2 | 36 | 17 | 13 | 2 | 6 | 53 | 3.19 |
| Tommy Luce, RHRP | Duluth/Northwoods | 6 | 0 | 1 | 4.1 | 7 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 2.08 |
NOTE: Cawiezell has 8 saves in 9 chances and was named to play in the Northwoods mid-season All-star game. Luce has two saves. Judy and Kuhn were named to the North team in the Valley League All-star game. Shaeffer Hall was tearing up the Northwoods league in three starts sandwiched around his orientation at Kansas University (where he has accepted a baseball scholarship) until he suffered a mild strain in his elbow that caused him to shut it down for the rest of the summer.
Below are the interviews with the guys I could get in touch with who were still interested in signing with the Indians. Matt Hague (11th round, Hague article with answers to some of the questions I would have asked him) and Cole St. Clair (7th round), declined to be interviewed during their contract negotiations with the Indians.
I was able to interview 22 draft choices (including McFarland) who are still considering signing with the Indians. The questions in each interview appear in bold and the answers in normal text. The order simply represents the order in which these guys were drafted.
T. J. McFarland – 6’3”, 190’ -LHP– Stagg HS,
Committed to the
1. Are you playing summer ball and, if so, how is that going? I am playing for the Illinois Sparks, the same team I have played for in the past. It is mostly weekend tournaments and I get my work in during the week to stay in shape.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what can you tell us about your fastball velocity increase? My command of my pitches is my biggest strength. I throw a fastball, a curve, a slider and a changeup. It’s interesting, scouts told me in January they thought I could throw 93. I think playing basketball this winter (I almost didn’t play so I could work on my baseball) has made a big difference in my leg strength. (NOTE: T. J. throws 91-92 and hits 93 mph).
3. Tell us about your arm injury last year and how it affected your prospect status. It was just tendonitis. I rehabbed it and haven’t had any problems this year. It’s fine. I guess scouts had mentioned early on in my high school career that when I graduated I could get drafted but it was so far away it never really sank in.
4. In your local paper (Orland Park Prairie) you were quoted as saying that you expected to sign right away with the Indians. What happened? The plan was to have me sign immediately after the draft and get down to the Gulf Coast League Indians right away to get acclimated to living away from home (the longest I have ever been away from home is probably a week) and get some innings in. The problem was that no over-slot bonuses were being paid in the period right after the draft. It seems like everyone is waiting for the first team to get an over slot bonus approved by Major League Baseball and then a number of teams will be more willing to try.
5. What are the Indians’ plans for you now? We have agreed on a bonus which is over slot. The goal seems now to be to get me signed and to
Chris Jones – 6’2”, 165’ -LHP– Gaither HS,
1. How is summer ball going? It’s going well. Area scout Mike Soper has been to see me a couple of times and he confirmed that I was going to pitch this Saturday (July 7th) because I think a number of Cleveland people are going to be at the game.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what has your fastball velocity (average and high) been this summer? My strength is that I throw strikes, have good control and a good curveball. My fastball velocity averages 88-89, touching 91 mph.
3. Are the Indians trying to sign you right now or did they say they were going to scout you and then make a bonus offer later? They are going to scout me this summer and make an offer probably more towards August 15th.
4. Based on what the scouts told you what round did you think you would be drafted in? I had no clue since I was injured early in the season. I was surprised when I was drafted as high as I was.
5. Based on what you now know, what is the percent chance that you will sign with the Indians before August 15th? I really don’t know. It depends on the bonus they are offering.
Miles Morgan – 6’4, 225’, RHP – Sophomore –
Miles missed almost the entire season with a shoulder injury and the Indians have been known in recent years for selecting pitchers who are injured as they have an excellent record on rehabbing these guys. Miles will also most likely be able to get a medical red-shirt and so would still be a sophomore in college eligibility in the 2008 draft.
1. I know you were injured and missed most of this season and are now going through rehab. How's that going? My rehab is going great. I have been throwing for about a month now and everything is starting to fall in place with mechanics and arm strength.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? My strengths as a player may be my understanding of the game and being confident with my pitches.3. The Indians have a great track record for rehabbing injured pitchers. Are you aware of that and will that impact the decision you make? I am aware of
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Well, being hurt and only pitching 4 innings this year I did not expect to be drafted at all…well, maybe in the late, late rounds. When I received the call I was very shocked and thankful because the honor of being drafted and with the Indians taking a chance that high makes me feel good.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? My main focus right now is to get healthy and 100% because if I’m not 100% then I am not helping the Indians or myself.
Jared Clark – 6’4, 195’, OF/RHP – Junior – Cal St.
Jared missed the entire season with a torn ACL. He will also most likely be able to get a medical red-shirt and so would still be a junior in college eligibility in the 2008 draft.
1. I know you were injured this season. How is your ACL rehab going, are you playing on a summer league team and, if so, which one in which league and how is that going? My rehab is going great. I have been throwing for about a month now and everything is starting to fall in place with mechanics and arm strength. My six months date is coming up on the 9th of July so that is exciting. I think I am going to be cleared to hit next week with my physical therapist and that is something that I have been waiting for for a long time. No summer ball for me. I will not be cleared in time for that.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? My strengths as a player would be my arm in the outfield, power, and the ability to hit the ball to all fields with power.3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I have not talked with the Indians that much because I believe they are waiting until we get closer to my recovery and closer to the deadline.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Based on what scouts told me before the draft I definitely did not think I was going to be taken in the 21st round, I was thinking more of late 40s, so (being drafted in the 21st round) was pretty surprising to me. It made me feel pretty good.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I do not have an answer for you yet for on this question. I am not fully recovered and have not talked to the Indians much.
Shaeffer Hall – 6’0”, 180’, LHP – Freshman - Jefferson (MO) College (23rd round).
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I was playing in
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? I get a lot of ground balls and work ahead in the count with good control and command. I throw a fastball, a curveball and a changeup. My fastball usually sits pretty solidly at 88-89 mph.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I am being scouted as a summer draft-and-follow. The Indians also saw me play during my college season.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Since I was a draft-and-follow last year with the Rangers, they owned my rights until a week before this year’s draft and other scouts didn’t really talk to me. So, I really had no idea what the scouts were thinking about where I would be drafted.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. I don’t know. I haven’t talked to the Indians for a while. Besides Mr. Stahl being my manager, the Indians did come out toward the end of my time in
Adam Zornes – 6’0”, 215’, C – Junior – Rice (drafted in the 24th round)
Adam got a late start playing in the
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I have been playing for a couple of weeks now with the Bourne Braves of the Cape Cod League. So far I have been hitting the ball well. The Indians asked me to come up here and work on some things with my hitting.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? My strength is my catching. I have a good arm, am a solid defender (NOTE: his pop times are in the range of 1.8 to 2.0). Offensively, I have power potential and the Indians see that.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? Summer draft and follow.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? I talked to a few teams when the scouts came down to Rice to interview us but I really wasn’t sure.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. I think there is a pretty good chance of me signing. I saw the Indians right before I came up to the
Bryce Brentz – 6’0”, 185’, RHP – South Doyle HS, Knoxville, TN (30th round).
NOTE: I talked to Bryce on Thursday (July 19) and he said he is still waiting for the Indians’ offer.
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for the Knoxville Yard Dogs and we just got back from a wood bat tournament in East Cobb (GA). Indians’ scout Mr. Chuck Bartlett saw me there and has pretty much stayed in touch with me from before the draft to now.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? I have a fresh arm. I haven’t pitched that much and, for the most part, I was a closer on our HS team, playing mostly in the outfield but pitching in a starting role when our two regular starters couldn’t start. I hit 94 mph a couple of times at the end of my HS season and also this summer. My normal fastball sits at 92 mph pretty consistently. The Indians talked to me about having me start for awhile but eventually turning me into a closer.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I am being scouted as a summer draft-and-follow. Mr. Bartlett is coming up to talk to my family in the next week or so.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? A number of teams (Marlins, Braves, Devil Rays, Padres and Brewers) talked to me about being an outfielder. Only the Yankees and the Indians talked to me about being a pitcher and, eventually, a closer and the Yankees called me after the first day of draft about what I would accept if they made me a 6th round pick (essentially slightly above slot). I think the Indians might also give me a chance to hit. After talking to the scouts before the draft I thought I would be a later round pick, maybe in the high 20s or low 30s.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. Right now I would say 50-50, depending on the bonus offer. My parents and I have talked a lot about signing versus going to college and decided to factor into my bonus request what my college expenses would be. That way we can put that money away up front and I can start college when I want once I am done playing. If I don’t sign I have heard a lot of great things about the Middle Tennessee program and I would love playing there if things don’t work out. Either way, I will be fully dedicated.
Jason Hessler – 6’3”, 220’, RHP – Junior -
Jason hurt his shoulder and had shoulder surgery in the fall. He missed his entire junior season and is currently on the disabled list for his summer team, the
1. I know you were injured and the 2007 season and are now going through rehab. How's that going? I spent the entire winter and spring rehabbing but expect to start playing in the next couple of weeks for the Maryland Orioles. That depends on the coach, however, as he tends to be careful in using pitchers coming off of injuries.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and, before you were hurt, what was the high and average velocity of your fastball? I would say it is aggressiveness and being able to work the entire strike zone. I have a fastball, curveball, changeup and split. Before my injury my average fastball was 89-91 mph with a high of 94.3. The Indians have a great track record for rehabbing injured pitchers. Are you aware of that and will that impact the decision you make? My college coach, Shawn Penders, used to work for the Indians and he told me of their good record at rehabbing injured pitchers. I had not heard about that before. That is a plus for the Indians, in my opinion.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? The Indians have been in contact with me through their area scout. They told me I would be drafted late as a summer draft and follow. Their area scout called and said he would be down to see me play once I get off the disabled list.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? There is a pretty good chance of me signing, I think. I really want to sign and get my pro career started.
Joey Mahalic – 6’3”, 205’ RHP/3B – Wilson HS,
Committed to
NOTE: The Indians announced after this story ran the first time that Joey signed for a package (bonus and scholarship) that his father said was over $200,000. Joey is reporting to the GCL Indians where he will be in the starting rotation.
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for the Northwest Stars--- in a wood bat league of college baseball players. After the draft, I pitched 5 innings in the state of Oregon High School All-Star Game against the senior high school all-stars: I allowed no earned runs and was awarded MVP Pitcher of the Tournament. Then I pitched in the state of
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Best fastball so far is 93 mph (he hit 94 mph on June 27th, the day after the interview!). I allowed only one extra base hit the entire high school season--it was a double. My strengths are my control with great ball movement and competitiveness. No one outranks me as a competitor.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians will observe and then discuss signing later.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I would be a high draft choice in the first 5 rounds.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? The door is still open for the Indians. If they like what they see this summer, my joining the Indians will be strongly considered.
Tyler Kuhn – 5’10”, 185’, SS/2B – Sophomore –
1. How’s summer ball going for Luray? Great. I am happy about my hitting (hitting .300) and felt good about going to the all-star game.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? No one tool is above average. I am the typical SS/2B,leadoff/#2 hole hitter. I cover a lot of ground on defense. At the all-star game there were three Indians’ scouts present. They timed me in the 60 yard dash at 6.68.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians wanted me to play as a summer draft-and-follow. They said that they wouldn’t have enough at-bats for me on their rookie league teams this summer and didn’t want me to get into a situation where my pro career was a short one because I couldn’t develop because I wasn’t playing.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? The Indians were the team that was on me the most, all the way from last fall. They called me when the draft was in the early 20s (rounds) to ask me about my signability. [NOTE: as a draft-eligible sophomore Tyler as a lot of leverage as he has two years left in college if he chooses not to sign this summer].
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th and will getting a chance to play in the same organization with Adam White (9th round 2007 draft) and Justin Jenkins (5th year senior signed before the draft) from your college influence your decision? I want a chance to start pro ball and it is not about getting a large bonus. I am just looking for slot money. If we can get that done I want to be a Cleveland Indian. No, while it would be great to play with Whitey and Justin again that aspect of it won’t influence my decision. Those guys are great but they have already started their pro careers and I need to decide what is best for me.
Josh Judy – 6’4”, 195’, RHP –Junior - Indiana Tech U. (drafted in the 34th round).
NOTE: The Indians announced that Josh had signed after this story ran the first time. Josh told me he will report to the GCL Indians.
1. I notice you are playing summer ball but have only made 3 starts. What is up with that? Also, were you heavily recruited out of HS? Yes, I am playing for Haymarket Senators in the Valley League. I started a little late because I was waiting to see what the results of the draft were before starting summer ball. I actually made my 4th start yesterday (July 2nd). On being recruited, no. Indiana Tech was the only 4-year school to offer me a scholarship after they saw me at a summer showcase my coach put together.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Mental toughness. My high fastball velocity is 94-95 mph and I average 91-92.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians said after the draft they would scout me this summer. They said that, right then, they didn’t have a lot of roster spots available on the rookie league teams, especially since they had one less team this year. Their area scout has been to see me but it seemed like there would be more Indians people at my next start (Thursday, July 12th) so something might be happening soon. (NOTE: He signed two days after that start.)
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I'd go in the top 20 rounds.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. It all depends on what they offer. I haven’t thought yet what type of bonus it would take to sign me.
Brian Juhl – 6’1”, 210’, C – Junior –
Brian is a switch hitting catcher. Hmmmm! Do we know any other switch hitting catchers? Brian also knows a Stanford volleyball player who I coached in club volleyball so we had more than just baseball to talk about.
NOTE: The Indians announced after this story ran that Brian had signed. I caught up with him at
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for Oahu in the
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player? My strength is my defensive game including handling pitchers and throwing. Offensively, when I get my swing going from both sides, I can be a good hitter.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? I think the Indians were planning on me being a summer draft-and-follow. I talked to the Indians’ area scout when I got to
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? Anywhere from the 8th to the 14th or 15th rounds.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. I would say probably 50-50 at this point. I am ready for pro ball and would like to sign. The area scout said that we will be talking in the next week or so. I wouldn’t mind going back to Stanford at all. It’s a great school.
P. J. Zocchi – 5’11”, 210’, RHP –Junior - Clemson (drafted in the 36th round).
1. How is summer ball going? I actually just got up to Harwich (Cape Cod League). I plan to start throwing in games this weekend (July 14-15) as a reliever and then, after about a week, I hope to be starting.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what has your fastball velocity (average and high) been this summer? My strength is that I am aggressive and throw strikes. I also have been able to overcome adversity (NOTE: He had Tommy John surgery his freshman year). My fastball velocity averages 88-91, touching 92 mph.
3. Are the Indians trying to sign you right now or did they say they were going to scout you and then make a bonus offer later? They have made me a bonus offer that was acceptable but said they didn’t have enough innings for me in the minors because all their rosters are full. They suggested I come up to the
4. Based on what the scouts told you what round did you think you would be drafted in? At the beginning of the year I was a starter at Clemson and I was thinking top 12 rounds. Then I got moved out of the rotation and I knew that if I was drafted it would be in the late rounds.
5. Based on what you now know, what is the percent chance that you will sign with the Indians before August 15th? Very high. As I said, I thought their bonus offer was acceptable when they made it and we’ll see if I can increase it with a good performance in the
Dean Kiekhefer – 6’0”, 155’, LHP –
Committed to
NOTE: I talked to Dean on Saturday. He said that the Indians’ area scout had been to see him pitch and John Mirabelli had been to see him on a separate occasion. They told him on Tuesday they would be in touch with him in a few days but, as of Saturday morning, he had not heard anything.
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing for Evansville Razorbacks (www.evansvilleblacksox.com/razorbacks.html) starting about July 1st.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Best fastball so far is 92 mph but normally sits at 86-89. My strength would be my assortment of different pitches I can throw for strikes (99 K to 8 BB in senior year). I have 3 different fastballs, 2 sliders, a curve and a changeup.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians will scout me with
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I'd go somewhere between round 6 and 12. I think where I was drafted may be partly because of the draft slotting system and the bonus we were asking for. Teams are offering to pay for college after I am done playing but we also are looking for some money in addition to that.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. Right now I would say it would be 15-20% based on where I was drafted and the bonus that we are talking about.
Johnny Williams – 6’2”, 170’, RHP –Junior –
Johnny pitched out of the bullpen later in the year for
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I haven’t been playing yet but I am trying to play starting later this month so the Indians can get a chance to see me play. I am trying to work something out with the Bourne Braves of the Cape Cod League. [NOTE: Same team Indians’ draft choice catcher Adam Zornes is playing for.]
2. What do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? Best fastball so far is 93 mph but I normally sit at 89-90. About my strengths, I am a fierce competitor. My fastball is my best pitch but I also throw a curve and a slider.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians have told me all along that I am a summer draft and follow.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Early in the season I was thinking I might be drafted in the top 10 rounds. Then I had some elbow soreness (classified as a minor strain, my elbow feels fine now in the bullpen sessions I have pitched this summer) and I think I dropped as a result of that.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I want to sign. As long as I get a reasonable bonus offer I think I would sign. It is not all about the bonus for me. I want to play professionally. If the bonus is comparable to where I was drafted I think there is a high percentage chance of me signing.
Dallas Cawiezell – 6’6”, 255’, RHP –Junior –
NOTE: I talked to
1. How is summer ball going for
2. How do you like closing, what do you consider your strengths as a pitcher and what is the normal and top velocity of your fastball? I like closing. I try to simplify the 9th inning as just being three outs like any other 3 outs. My strength is being able to spot my fastball and my confidence in my ability, even in this league, where there are a lot of good pitchers. I work off my fastball. I am basically a two-pitch pitcher right now: fastball and splitter but I do have a get-me-over slider. My splitter is basically up and down but does drift in a little to lefties. I normally sit at 90-92 with my fastball and I have been up to 93-94 mph. NOTE: He hit 95 in the Northwoods League All-Star game and struck out the two guys he faced.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians (scout Derek Ross) have told me all along that I am a summer draft and follow. I think the Indians will be sending a cross checker up to the Northwoods All-Star game Wednesday or a little later this season after the All-star break to watch me pitch.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Interestingly, the Indians didn’t contact me much early in the season. It was mostly the Twins and the Mets and both said that I would be drafted late so I wasn’t surprised when I was drafted in the 40th round, just a little surprised it was by the Indians. The Indians did call me about coming in for a pre-draft workout but I was already on my way to
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I want to play pro baseball. Depending on the bonus I think it is 50/50 right now. I won’t sell my family short by taking a small bonus but I am not all about the money, either.
NOTE: I asked Dallas, who also was a hitter at Valpo and hit early in the year for Alexandria when he wasn’t pitching (he was actually in the Northwoods League homerun hitting contest before the all-star game), about facing Shaeffer Hall, another Indians’ draftee, when Shaeffer was pitching at Duluth in the same summer league. His comment was that Shaeffer had some nasty stuff the time
Tommy Luce – 6’6”, 200’ RHP – Freshman - Seminole St. Col. (OK) – (drafted in the 41st round).
NOTE: Tommy is no longer listed on the
1. How is your summer going playing for the
2. How do you like pitching out of the bullpen and what is your fastball velocity when pitching out of the 'pen? I love pitching out of the bullpen. My velocity out of the bullpen is around 88-91, sometimes touching 92.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? The Indians told me that they wanted me to come up and play in the Northwoods League and they would watch me and maybe talk to me about an offer by August 15th.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in Based on what I was told before the draft, I was planning on going in the top 20 rounds. I guess things didn't work out like they were supposed to, but that's how the draft works sometimes.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? The way things are looking right now, I'm probably going to go back to school for another year. But things could change in the next month.
Bryce Tafelski – 6’0”, 185’, OF – HS Senior – Scholarship to UC
1. Are you playing summer ball this year and, if so, who are you playing for? I am playing again this summer for the California Wahoos, a team coached by Indians’ scout and cross checker Vince Sagisi.
2. What do you consider your strengths as a player and have the Indians indicated they will keep you as a catcher if you sign? My strengths are mostly defensive right now, with my pop times (time from the ball hitting the catcher’s glove to the throw getting to the infielder’s glove on a stolen base attempt) and my agility behind the plate. Yes, they plan to keep me at catcher if I sign.
3. Do the Indians seem intent on signing you right now or are they planning on scouting you as you play this summer and then talking about signing you? Mr. Sagisi said that the Indians would make an offer by the end of July after seeing me play a little more.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted? I thought I'd be drafted around the 10th round.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what the percent chance is that you will sign with Indians before August 15th. At the beginning of the summer I really was looking forward to signing. Right now I would say probably 50-50 depending on the bonus offer. Playing in college has probably entered my mind a little more as the summer has gone on.
Ryan Royster – 6’1”, 170’, OF – Junior - UC Davis – (drafted in the 44th round).
1. I notice you are hitting .300 in your league so far (and hitting your first HR last night!). How do you think your summer is going? I feel it has been very positive and I have had a chance to make some improvements and adjustments as well as showcase my skills.2. What do you think your strengths are as a player? I am blessed with good speed and a desire to win
3. Have the Indians indicated they wanted to sign you as soon as possible or are they going to scout you and make a bonus offer closer to the August 15th deadline? I think it will be closer to the 15th which will give them a chance to see all that I can offer to the organization.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I thought I would be a top 15 rounder.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what are the chances that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I am happy with my performance so far, but it is a much more complex process and I can only stay positive and continue to stay focused on my goal of being a Cleveland Indian.
I also asked Ryan a 6th question about batting against the three Indians’ draft choices (Shaeffer Hall and Tommy Luce of Dan Evatt – 6’3”, 200’, OF – HS Senior – Grapevine (TX) HS – (drafted in the 45th round).
I did not actually get to interview Dan but I received information through his school district that he is still negotiating with the Indians and expects to make a decision, not surprisingly, close to the August 15th deadline.
Brock Simpson – 6’2”, 208’, OF – Junior -
1. How is your summer league ball going? I was playing for
2. What do you think your strengths are as a player? I am what they refer to as a tools player, even though the scouts think I could wind up in LF as a professional. Maybe they don’t think my arm is strong enough for RF. I run a 6.7 60 yard dash and I talked to the MLB scout from their scouting service and he said I was a 60 hitter with 50 power (on the scouting 20-80 rating system). He said I projected to hit about .275 in the majors with some power.
3. Have the Indians indicated they wanted to sign you as soon as possible or are they going to scout you and make a bonus offer closer to the August 15th deadline? I wanted to sign right away but Mr. Abney said they didn’t have any spots on their rookie league teams since they dropped a team this year and had a bunch of guys in extended spring training. He said that if a roster spot opened up they might sign me early but now I think it will be closer to the 15th which will give them a chance to scout me once I recover. He said if they sign me late they will just send me to the instructional league in the fall.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? Various scouts told me anywhere from rounds 10-20. I liked that the Indians didn’t give me a round. They just said they were interested in me and would find a round they could draft me in.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what are the chances that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? For me, money is not an issue so I think the chances are pretty good. Kids dream of playing professional baseball and I just want a chance to show my skills. I am confident if I get that chance I will make the most of it, regardless of what the bonus is.
Matt Willard – 5’10”, 175’, SS – Junior -
1. How is your summer league ball going?
2. What do you think your strengths are as a player? I am a leadoff guy, a table setter. My job is to get on base and steal some bases. My time in the 60 yard dash is around 6.7. My arm strength is good and I have played SS all my life and am confident in my ability to play SS.
3. Have the Indians indicated they wanted to sign you as soon as possible or are they going to scout you and make a bonus offer closer to the August 15th deadline? The Indians have told me I am a summer draft-and-follow. Mr. Abney said they will talk to me later in the season about an offer.
4. Based on what scouts told you before the draft, what round were you expecting to get drafted in? I expected to be a late round pick.
5. Based on what you know so far estimate what are the chances that you will sign with Indians before August 15th? I would like to sign. I told the Indians when I was drafted that I really wanted to sign and, if they offer me a contract I expect to sign it.
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Well, that’s it! Now we wait to see how many of these guys are actually offered professional contracts and how many think the opportunity (and, let’s face it, the bonus) is right for them to begin their professional careers. I think that you will see the Indians sign a bunch of guys in the days leading up to the August 15th deadline. How many they will sign is still unknown but I think the number will surprise the average fan of the baseball draft. It could easily be 8-10 or more and may actually include a couple of surprises. That is, they may sign a couple of guys who weren’t drafted by anyone this year but whom the Indians scouted in the Northwoods or Cape Cod League, very similar to the way the Indians acquired Brian Barton a couple of years ago. Which good players are left who were not drafted this year? I don’t know and, from the response I received from Baseball
Only a couple of real questions remain, now:
(1) Will the Indians be able to sign Cole St. Clair? When I look at what Jonathan Holt (5th round, $138,000) and Bo Greenwell (6th round, $123,000) signed for and the vibes I am getting from the whole situation, I get the feeling that the Indians, initially, are holding close to the slot line with St. Clair. I would imagine he would be disappointed with that offer given that some publications were saying at the beginning of the season that he might be a first- or second-round pick. I predicted in my previous article that the Indians would first try to stay within slot and then significantly up their offer to St. Clair as we get closer to August 15th and I hold to that prediction. Will they offer him enough money to sign? Right now, I think it is a shade less than 50-50.
(2) Who else will the Indians make offers to? I don’t think they will offer contracts to all the remaining draftees. I have my ideas on who they will make reasonable offers to based on bonus demands and how those guys have played this summer but I think you might be able to figure it out based on the interviews and statistics above.
I think this Indians’ draft class is intriguing. Certainly John Mirabelli and his staff took an interesting approach to this draft. I hope we get a chance to see a lot of these guys sign and then develop in the minors for the Indians. The more we sign the better a chance we have of finding a later-round gem.
More in my next article which will analyze how the Indians did in the 2007 draft after all the dust of August 15th clears.
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