DocBauer

25 and 21 when someone else starts the game besides Correia? WOW! I doubt any of us were aware of that until just now. Any way you want to play it, that's a pretty bold number that's hard to argue with. Before I say any more, please let me be clear about two things. 1) I didn't hear Gardy's comments. I didn't hear the tone of his voice. I also don't know if he was upset, goaded, tired, or anything else. I only have the words to read. 2) Nothing mean or personal, but I don't want Correia pitching for the Twins. That being said, I really don't understand any fuss made over Gardy's comments. Rather, I see reactions to his comments being interpreted by devoted and sometimes frustrated and impatient fans. I mean, really, break it down. What did he say that is in any way inaccurate? Is Correia currently part of the rotation? Yes. Is he being paid to do so? Yes. Will he be paid even if the Twins cut bait tomorrow? Yes. All reality until otherwise. Defending a veteran and a nice guy? Maybe. Might also be a blunt motivation signal to Correia to earn his keep. He's aware of the guys in AAA and where they are? God, I sure hope he is! If he isn't getting updates and scouting reports then there is a serious dysfunction somewhere. The guys in AAA have had their ups and downs? No matter talent, projectables and quality seasons, is there something disparaging in this comment? No. It's simply the truth about a group of talented youngsters, chiefly May, Meyer and Darnell in their first or full AAA action. About a month and a half worth of AAA to be precise. Simply reading boxes and TD game reports will show you there is greatness with at least a little inconsistency here and there. Long term are these guys all probably better than Correia? Absolutely! No question! And I can't wait to see them! But as Duluth fan pointed out, the Twins traditionally make mid-season promotions for their prospects, sometimes later. Is pitching the balance of June, or so, going to do anything to damage the development of these guys? Or might they get more starts, more innings, smooth out some things, gain even more confidence? After three lousy and disappointing seasons, the Twins are trying to build on that 25-21. They are in rebuild, and they know it. And they know Correia isn't part of the future. There will be promotions and changes coming. I think they are simply trying to be competitive best they can, continue to build something, and are hesitant to just jump ship and flail the remainder of the season by just plugging in young rookies for the sake of playing them. But more to the point, I simply don't see anything in Gardy's words that are inflammatory unless you want to read them that way.

I really like this pick. There are no guarantees, but this kid has real stuff and real possibilities. And yes, I also wonder if he might not be ready pretty quickly. 2015 though? I'm doubting that unless its late in the season, reason being simply that no matter his stuff, he has a little to work on, the majors are nothing like college or even the high minors. Duh. Lol And they might watch his innings a bit this season due to already having a college season under him. Thinking Cedar Rapids and a split season promotion to Ft Meyers. That sets him up for AA next spring. This is not baseball 40 years ago. Closers, setup men and specialists have changed the game. You need a strong pen. Successful teams, even World Series teams, don't always have the deepest bullpens in the game, but they always have that trio or foursome they can really count on. Reflect back on our two series winning teams for instance. Personally, I'd work pretty hard on that change of his, or something similar like a slurve. Not for a tryout as a starter, but just to give him at least a so-so pitch as a third offering he can get across here and there to really get the hitter thinking.

If Burdi is what he appears to be, I figure Cedar Rapids to start, and a very possible/probable promotion and split to his season in Ft Meyers. That puts him on track for AA to begin 2015, or at worst, an early promotion after getting his legs under him. That could easily mean a Rochester promotion at some point, and a shot at the ML level 2016. Late 2015? Maybe. What could hold him back some this year, however, could be a later season case of arm fatigue after a season of college ball. Maybe it's just me, but as I've stated before, I'm seeing a subtle switch in the Twins brain trust to be a little more aggressive, and a little less patient at the same time. In other words, they just seem quicker to pull the trigger when someone deserves to move, and quicker to move someone down if not producing. I suppose three bad years, and a wave of prospects moving up will do that to a team. Im expecting a lot of mid season promotions here pretty soon as draftees sign and the rookie leagues begin.

I don't hate this draft. Just about every guy picked 3-10, taken individually, seem to be a decent pick. Clay might have been a round early, though it appears there are projectables there the Twins like. And Cutura is rather off the charts. Literally it seems. But there must be something there the Twins picked up on. He's a real mystery and I'd love to know more about him and the thoughts behind his pick in the 7th. Again, I don't hate this draft. But it does confuse me. Love drafting live arms with real velocity to work with. And quality relievers are absolutely essential, just like talent and depth at any position. No problem there, no arguement, no hate. But this many relievers in 9 total picks? Just find it hard to fathom there wasn't a single quality SP prospect or position player available in any of these spots worth picking. I like Burdi a lot, and it's obvious the Twins do as well. They certainly have a long history scouting him. I also like Cederoth as a hard velocity guy late in the pen. If he and Burdi can get hold of even a semi-decent off speed offering to go along with their speed and sliders, for a look-see pitch if nothing else, they might form a great potential late game duo. Even if Clay was a bit early, I also don't hate this pick. A LHRP in the 90's, with a couple projectable pitches, could also prove really valuable. The Twins and their scouts obviously know infinitely more than I possibly could. Just really wonder what it is they DO see and project.

Knew it was coming. Don't hate the pick at all. Hope he's what we've all longed for at SS, and that he is like many of our top young prospects the past few years, a relatively fast riser. But I am a little surprised they still went this route when Jackson was unexpectedly available. Best high school hitter in the draft, and some say the best potential hitter period. Did we perhaps pass on the BPA?

I believe a solid Willingham will be more productive for us over the long haul of this season that whatever A prospect we'd get for him. Age alone would prevent a big return, though a late season trade isn't out of the question. He'll have to be replaced next offseason. Deduno has done nothing but pitch well as long as healthy. And as such, is better than just about any other 5th starter out there. He not only deserves his spot in the rotation, but you'll see improvement over his next few starts as he stretches himself out. Hughes and Nolasco are just fine. Nolasco hasn't hit his stride yet, but we're seeing signs. You don't mess with Gibson. He's solid, will get better, but might tire around September. Just in time for call ups. May and Meyer will get their shots eventually. But don't forget, they are both in their first AAA season with a month and a half in. Give them a little more time. And I say again, don't go to sleep on Darnell. Johnson? Might be a late blooming LH, but he's probably a long or middle bullpen option. Dozier is good, on his way to stud status. Love what Plouffe is doing. Pinto shows tremendous potential. Escobar is a breath of fresh air. But he needs to sit or play another spot a day or two a week to let Santana see time at SS. Santana is a problem. He should play SS daily, and yet, the kid provides a spark, doesn't approach anything as if he's a young rookie who shouldn't be here. How do you not keep him up here and do something with him? The bullpen is close. Trading Duensing would be a huge mistake. Relievers walk a fine line. One bad stretch blows their stats up. But this guy has proven to be largely dependable when he has a role. Dealing him would be a mistake. Like the rotation though, there are the likes of Tonkin and Achter, and possibly Pino, who deserve a shot at some point this season. I like the direction we're heading.

On a side note, as I hear it, if the Twins DO reach 85 wins, Ludacris will now bow out in favor of Prince coming out of semi-retirement to play Target Field.

Going to, more or less, agree with this. Before the season began I wrote that I saw a team that could seriously contend for .500 ball, give or take a couple games. And for a rebuilding team, just begining to see the fruition of top talent ready, or getting close, and a couple nice FA signings, that would be fun, interesting, and provide real optimism as well as a springboard for next season and beyond. I also stated that with a little luck, ie: a lack of injuries, a couple players returning to just norms and not career years, and a couple youngsters stepping forward, 84-85 wins was possible. And Im going to stand by that, along with Dave. Rotation: Hughes has been outstanding. He's everything, and more, any of us could have wished for. Pick your reason for success, but don't forget his age, stuff, and past top prospect status. But even with some regression or a rough spot or two here or there, he'd still factor as a very good starter who is finding himself. Take away Nolasco's rough start, and factor his overall experience and ability, and I see no regression, but the opposite. Gibson has been one of the seasons best stories thus far. Some inconsistencies should be expected. But there is also the ability to build and grow and get better as well. My only concern is running out of gas around September. Deduno, I believe, has proved himself to be a better than average back end starter. That leaves one hole. And I agree that Correia might not have to be replaced for us to hit such a lofty goal if he just continues on his current improvement trend. But I still have doubts this will continue, and really, if he does, 85 wins or not, why hold on to him if you're a rebuilding club with future talent almost ready on the farm? I'd like to see him gone for building sake, and I believe it will happen at some point. Now, does that mean May or Meyer I don't know. Personally, I'm not falling asleep on Darnell being the most ready to come up and show something. Bullpen: Talk to other teams how spoiled we've been to have the pens we've had over the years. And this pen is very close to continuing our string of good to great relief staffs. We need Swarzak to become more of his consistent self. I'm not as down on Burton as some. He had one poor stretch in 2013, but otherwise was solid to good. It's been rougher this year, but at this point, I think he's still a solid, experienced option and not cooked...yet. I just don't believe in the G-Man. Sooner or later, Tonkin and/or Achter need to come up/back up. Late bloomer or mystery man, Pino probably deserves a shot at some point. What he's doing just can't be ignored. Offense: To me, this might be the biggest question mark, for consistency if nothing else. Despite his short-comings, a healthy Hammer has something left in the tank, and provides a veteran power/experienced RBI bat in the middle of the order. Something we'll have to probably address in FA or trade next year to replace. Along with an also now healthy Arcia, he of tremendous ability, we gain another dangerous bat. Dozier is a very good player, still growing and developing, who might reach stud potential. Plouffe is growing up before our eyes, and is having the best year of his short career. News flash: Pinto is good. And he's only going to get better. Suzuki, even with regression, is a solid, experienced bat having a great season, and seems to get what "clutch" means. I'm certain Escobar will show some regression, but he as flat out rescued a black hole in the lineup to something at least respectable. I don't know how much longer Santana can keep things up, but the kid has both surprised and impressed the hell out of me. He's not playing enough at SS, he's young and inexperienced, he's been thrown in to the deepest end of the pool, and yet, he doesn't play like it. He reminds me of Revere, not in direct comparison, but his speed, attitude, and the way he provides excitement. Please, nobody tell him he's not supposed to be playing this well. And we still have Mauer. I know he has his detractors. Not going to argue with those here. But he is flat out one of the best pure hitters and OB guys in the league, and usually a doubles machine. Whether he hits 2, or my preference at 3, if we can get even a second half of the season with the normal Mauer, that's a huge lift. These things, and this is a club who can reach that magical .500 mark, and even reach a little higher.

I keep hearing Gordon. I think a lot of that is due to long standing problems at the ML level, though that might be changing now with Escobar's performance and signs of real life, talent and potential in Santana. (Nothing against Escobar, but I'd love to see more of Santana at SS) No knock on Gordon, or his potential, but if Jackson were available I'd snap him up and I'd keep him at C. I don't see a need to rush him, despite his potential bat, up the chain by moving him position wise. We could afford, in my opinion, to work and develop him at C for now.

Kepler was one of my top minor leaguers picked to click this season. This was/is based on his talent/potential, what he has shown thus far, including last season when he got the late start, and a sense that he wasn't scared or overmatched in the AFL despite not so hot statistics. His slow start is disconcerting to be sure. However, he's still showing plate discipline which is a positive indicator. He is still very young. And while I don't pretend to understand the level or quality of baseball he played in Germany, I don't think it's hard to speculate it lacked some of the type of talent and competition you'd see here in the States. And again, while vastly athletic, he's very young. By no means am I saying they are complete parallels to one another, but consider all-star Torri Hunter as a somewhat similar comp. A young, athletic kid from a smaller town, in a location that wasn't known for turning out top baseball talent. It took Hunter 7 seasons in the minors, with a couple short term call ups to Minnesota, before he stuck for good. There's still over a half of a full season left to start finding his stroke.

Not going to bash Antony at this point as Ryan has had input most of the time off season and in season. This team IS a better team, is trending upward, and as a lot of really talented kids who continue to climb and provide excitement, even with the disappointing and frustrating injuries to Sano and Buxton. Mistakes have been made, absolutely, primarily in the OF/CF depth as we've all discussed and hammered home. But I'd just don't know that I can Antony out to dry for that all things considered. Honestly a little surprised about the LHP comment. Not saying the organization is just loaded with future Santana or Liriano clones. And LHP is always hard to find in real quality and potential. I just find it an interesting and somewhat surprising comment because the team has concentrated pretty hard the past few years and there are a number of at least decent LHP in the minors with potential stretching from AAA to EST. I still am a fan of Ryan as a man and leader for this organization. And I believe he has the ship righted and on course. Glad to see him feeling so much better and stronger.

No problems with any of this, just a little disappointed and surprised to not see Gonsalves yet. Hope there is no bad news we haven't heard about yet.

Also not worried at this point. Remember, he really didnt pitch many innings last season. And despite his young age, he's performing well and trending upward. I seriously doubt that in games and bullpens he is simply ordered to NEVER throw a slider. That would simply be ridiculous. I think more likely he is simply restricted in how many to throw in order to continue work on other pitches. I just wish we could have someone actually explain the process here instead of conjecture and rumor.

I am on the "wait" bandwagon. And I'm there for a few reasons. One, Correia is indeed projecting better/decling numbers for one simple reason, he's pitching better. And was pointed out previously, the entire staff has been pitching better. Correia is NOT a part of our future. But for the now, I don't think you cut bait on someone actually improving. Just doesn't make logical sense. Plus, if his trending continues, picking up part of his contract or not, instead of cutting bait entirely, you might actually get a prospect at the lower levels who isn't too bad around July to a team that needs depth. Two, as I have mentioned earlier, I think Deduno is a solid, occasinally excellent SP. But I have reservations as to whether he's built for 30+ starts. I think he is a far better than average #5 rotation piece where his starts and innings can be limited somewhat. And consider flashes he showed in 2012, and how well he pitched in 2013 before his shoulder issue. Point blank, he was our best SP for a few months until then. This season, for various reasons, (more recovery time, the presence of Pelfrey and Correia, etc) he opened in the pen. He has not pitched badly thus far, and is still stretching himself out. Three, forget any arguement about service time, even if it a valid arguement. No matter the outstanding talent and potential, no matter the excitement and how much all of us, including me, wants to see these kids up, consider the fact these kids a month and a half...total...of AAA experience so far. Are they really hurt by continuing to gain experience and polish and confidence at Rochester for a while longer? Even another month? We don't get to see them daily. Each could still be polishing anything from their 3rd or 4th pitching, to holding runners, or working on their slide. The ONLY danger would be impatience on their part, not ours. And that's on them individually, and the coaching staff, to maintain focus and continue their work and success. Its not personal, but I want Correia gone as well, so that we can continue our build. I also think the G-Man needs to be gone from the pen as well in favor of Tonkin, Achter, even giving Pino a deserving shot. " That's for the memories, but we're moving forward." These things are coming. In my impatient interim, I'm enjoying actually having some real prospects, and a couple solid looking fringe guys, actually building toward future improvement.

I think predicting this draft, from all accounts and rumors I've read, make this a real crapshoot. Lots of talent to be had for sure, but seems to be unpredictable who will take who. Really like what I've seen of Escobar so far, a d generally impressed with Santana as well. Their approach at the plate is something I've been watching closely. Neither appears intimidated or "lost" up there, that's especially important to the less experienced Santana. With his bat, we all hope Polanco could be the answer. And while never seeing him in person, I'm not so sure Goodrum isn't the best SS prospect in the system, based on reports. But not only has SS been kind of a black hole for a long time, but as smartly pointed out, you not only go for BPA overall, but in 4+ years from now, how can you know what your needs will be. I guess, overall, Gordon has replaced Turner as the best infield talent available, and the direction we will probably go. I just wish I could be a little more excited about his projectability for a #5 pick. I'm not real concerned about plus power in Gordon, but wish his hit and or speed factors rated a little higher.

Reportedly, numbers never lie. Except we all know this is false in the game of baseball. There is so much a variety of statistics and measurements that can be used to make cases pro and con. And in the case of hitters/position players, there are many various mitigating circumstances that influence their production. Not just players' hot and cold streaks and adjustments, but also protection and batters on base in front of them. Through today, Saturday May 31st, his per AB numbers have him on pace to finish at 27 doubles, down from 32 last season, nearly identical HR numbers, 20 vs 19, and 89 RBI vs 93 in 2013. However, despite nearly identical numbers per AB compared to last season, based on this season, so far, and last season's 457 AB's, it should be pointed out that not only did Vargas start out a little slowly this season, but he's also up a level at AA. And unlike last season, there is no Buxton, Rosario or Sano to help carry the load. Further, compare his overall slash line: 2013: .267 Avg./ .344 OB%/ .468 SLG%/ .813 OPS 2014: .324 Avg./ .401 OB%/ .514 SLG%/ .914OPS Even more, he struck out at a rate of 23% percent per AB in 2013, and walked at an 11% rate, all based on 457 AB's for the season. Thus far in 2014, in 185 AB's, he is striking out at a 17% rate, and walking at a 13% rate. Granted, these numbers are based on AB's and not plate appearances, but I doubt there would be much discrepancy. I believe this begs the question, "What happens next?" I think this speaks of a promotion to Rochester soon, after the All-Star break to be sure. I think Vargas has crossed the line of "coming up", to a possible September call up and a possible bat for the 2015 Twins. View full article

I agree. He was one of my "must watch" picks for this season. This doesn't downgrade the potential of Meyer in any way shape or form, but May simply might be ready sooner. After all, he's not only almost equally talented, but pitched more innings last season. I still don't think we should sleep on Darnell, despite his last start. He's been very good this season. Perhaps I'm a bit conservative, but I'm not sure I'm ready to trigger one of these kids just yet. Only because I want them to be as fully prepared and ready as they can be. I'd prefer a promotion, if possible, that is permanent. Correia pitched well today, but is still clearly the weak link in the rotation. I find myself wondering about a Johnson promotion, even if a temporary band-aid. Am I a bad person to wish a trade or simple injury to make this happen?

Addendum: PLAY PINTO DAILY! Sorry for yelling, but somebody smack Gardy upside the head.

Reportedly, numbers never lie. Except, we all know this is false in the game of baseball. There are so many various statistics and measurements that can be used to make cases pro and con. And in the case of a hitter/position player, there are many various mitigating circumstances that influence their production. Not just a player's hot and cold streaks and adjustments, but also protection and batters on base in front of them. Through today, Saturday May 31st, his per AB numbers have him on pace to finish at 27 Dbls, (down from 32 last season), nearly identical HR numbers, 20 vs 19, and 89 RBI vs 93 in 2013. However, despite nearly identical numbers compared to last season, per AB, based on this season and last season's 457 AB's, or a slight regression this season, it should be pointed out that not only did Vargas start out a little slow out of the gate this season, but he's also up a level at AA, and unlike last season, there is no Buxton, Rosario or Sano to help carry the load. Further, compare his overall slash line: 2013: .267Avg/ .344 OB%/ .468 SLG%/ .813 OPS 2014: .324Avg/ .401 OB%/ .514 SLG%/ .914OPS Even more, he struck out at a rate of 23% percent per AB in 2013, and walked at an 11% rate, all based on 457 AB's for the season. Thus far in 2014, in 185 AB's, he is striking out at a 17% rate, and walking at a 13% rate. Granted, these numbers are based on AB's and not plate appearances, but I doubt there would be much discrepancy. I believe this begs the question, "what happens next?" I would think this speaks of a promotion to Rochester soon, after the all star break to be sure. I think Vargas has crossed the line of: "coming up" to a possible September call up and a possible bat for the 2015 Twins.

RBI/R discrepancy is probably related to nothing more than blind luck opportunity. Agree with John 100%. Arcia is a stud waiting to happen. Despite time missed, if healthy the rest of the season, he still might finish first or second in HR's this season, no slighting Dozier. BTW, how about that arm of his! I felt during ST Willingam had hitched himself to the Kubel "done wagon". But he looked good his first few games before injury, started to heat up at Rochester, and has looked anything but cooked in his short time back. I sure hope he continues as he and Arcia, with the balance of our lineup, provides a huge boost. I would not advocate putting the cart before the horse in any way shape or form, but, I have stated previously that I wondered what real value a Hammer trade might bring, and perhaps a solid, productive season from Willingham might be more beneficial for a full season for the Twins than a minor/mediocre trade.

I confess, I haven't heard anything about questionable mechanics. Perhaps I've missed that somewhere. Obviously, the teams picking ahead of us will help determine what we end up doing, but I'm having a real tough time coming up with what I think, in my meaningless opinion, we should do. In past seasons the answer seemed obvious, pick the best pitching prospect available. If he could be a fast rising college pitcher, all the better. (Though that doesn't always work either) Depth, competition, trade value, a young mover to rise up and take the place of a traded, fading or lost ML pitcher is always good. So you truly can never have enough pitching. And I love the idea of Jackson if he falls to us, and truly can be a quality C. Haven't read anything that says he can't. Only read comments as to moving him to the OF to speed his process to the ML level. But one thing the Twins definitely have proven over the years is patience. But not sure he'll even be an option at #5. There just doesn't seem to be a LHer that is a better prospect than Nola from the right side. That leaves Gordon and maybe Turner. Wish I could read something about potential that could make me more excited about Gordon's potential.

Agree strongly with the past few posts. Hate to take Dozier out of the lineup, but I think he might be due a day or two of rest here or there, whether that be on the bench, or a shot at DHing a day or two. We have the depth in the infield, as opposed to the OF, for Escobar or Nunez to fill in at 2B once in a while. And a tip of the cap to Plouffe once again. We're not talking all star status, but what a switch in this kid this season! He's been a virtual ironman who has flipped a switch and is playing the best overall ball so far in his young career. I think he's gone from a fringe player to a cornerstone. Now, cornerstone meaning star/starter or valuable and versatile role player is yet to be determined.

I am so very impressed by this new facility, and what it means to the younger Twins prospects! In the past, people referred to the Twins doing thing "the Twins way." This was in reference, obviously, to playing ball hard and smart, and fielding well rounded teams who didnt beat themselves, and were often assembled without much in the way of high priced contracts. Injuries, FA losses, players who couldn't make a successful next step, some questionable trades, and other factors have deterioted the on the field product the past three seasons. Some smart moves this offseason, (yes and a few not so smart moves made and not made withstanding), development and maturity of a handful of potential core players, and one of the best minor leagues in baseball has us more competitive and headed back toward winning ways. Also of note is a few really smart coaching additions the past couple of seasons. But I feel "the Twins way" goes beyond the product on the field at the major league level. For years now, the Twins have concentrated on finding and developing FO, scouting, instructors, coaches and managers who are tied to the family tree that is the Twins. And while I know there is debate amongst fans and followers as to this approach in some cases, it has largely proved successful. (Think overall and not just the past 3 seasons). Virtually the entire coaching staff has ties to past performance with the big league club. The roving instructors, coaches and managers, as stated, also have times playing either with the parent club or in the minor league system. And these men have found real success as the records and player development of one of the best minor league systems in ball proves. I think they've even uncovered a few potential big league managers for the future. The only one they've let slip away is Redmond, I'm sorry to say, but he's fast tracked himself pretty well. But the Twins also went all out to create one of baseball's most amazing cathedrals in Target field, providing not only a beautiful, fan-friendly experience, but one that pays homage to their history. They've worked hard to be at the forefront for international scouting, especially with their early academies in central and South America. If memory serves, they were first or amongst the first in Venezuala, for instance. The Fort Meyer's facility has long been amongst the best and most beautiful for ST, and offers an incredible high-A ballpark experience during the season. This new addition further proves the Twins way of doing things. I wouldn't dare to suggest young Twins prospects, or any team's prospects for that matter, have been or are treated poorly, but this facility offers a real quality home away from home for 16-21 year old kids and young men starting out their careers. Some are leaving home, even home countries, for the very first time. This offers them quality comfort and care, some great amenities, even closer supervision by coaches on a daily basis. And I love the classrooms to help Latin players further their transition. Unspoken in the article, but I assume there will be at least some Latino influence in regard to coaches and supervisors. And you have to love the immersion of Twins history to these young players. It might sound kind of corny, but it's things like this that make me proud to call the Twins my life long team, and further develops what it means to do things "the Twins way."

Kolek is tantalizing! There is no questioning that. With time, coaching, health, and a willingness to learn, he could be a Clemons comparable. Scouts and GM's have to decide on injury risk, coach-ability and projection. He could also be another in a long and forgettable line of prospects who threw hard and nothing more. The MLB draft is a huge crapshoot of hope and possibility. When you pick in this high of a draft slot, you have to determine dream possibility vs quality probability. I agree it's probably a moot point as he probably won't be there at 5 anyway. If, by chance, he is, and you want to go pitching, I think it's clearly between him and Nola. Hey, Nola isn't a soft tosser. And he's polished, playing in a top conference, with solid secondary stuff that has good potential. Being a "safer" pick doesn't mean poor or no projection. Kolek is tantalizing but scary. His upside is tremendous, but he's probably less polished than Stewart or Berrios. And an 18 year old that throws that hard scares me in regard to his arm. I want to say Kolek if available as the #5 pick should be someone who has scouting numbers that make you salivate. Win or lose, you take a shot on someone like that. I'm just torn at the thought of "what if" going both directions.