2014 MLB Draft: RF Jordan Luplow Highlights Pittsburgh Pirates Day 2 Picks
By Matt Shetler
Pirates 5th round pick Michael Suchy (Photo Credit: Florida Gulf Coast)
Round 5, Pick 161, Michael Suchy, RF, Florida Gulf Coast
Suchy was a key part of Florida Gulf Coast’s offense this spring. Scouts like Suchy’s raw tools, but still have questions about his bat. There is a lot of swing-and-miss in his game and he relies on his strength more than bat speed to produce power.
He could develop into a nice hitter because of his short swing. If he cuts down on the strike outs, the Bucs could have something here.
Suchy has above average speed and is a solid defender with a good arm suited for right field.
He has raw power and a career .290/.370/.443 line in college. Suchy seems more of a project but could develop in time.
Round 6, Pick 191, Tyler Eppler, RHP, Sam Houston State
The first pitcher of the day, Eppler can touch 95 MPH with his fastball, but is said to be more in the 88-92 range consistently.
Eppler had a 3.20 ERA in 109.2 innings at Sam Houston State this year, with a 67:30 K/BB ratio.
He needs to work on his other pitches and only has above average control, but the Pirates have had success drafting pitchers with good fastballs and work on developing the rest of the package.
Round 7, Pick 221, Nelson Jorge, SS, International Baseball Academy (Puerto Rico)
Jorge has good speed and good arm strength.
He’s also a switch hitter who can hit the ball the other way well but is much better batting from the left side of the plate.
Scots say that because of his speed and arm strength he could stay as a shortstop long term, but also has the ability to play second base and the outfield.