By Jacob Hillman
Ryan Bliss – Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks opened their draft with the sixth overall pick taking high school shortstop Jordan Lawlar. Bliss was the first selection for the D-backs on the second day. Looking at the D-backs top prospects list, it makes sense why Lawlar and Bliss were the first two picks for Arizona. Only two middle infielders rank in the top 30 prospects, and No. 3 overall prospect Geraldo Perdomo will get his chance in the big leagues soon.
The assumption around Bliss is that he will move to second base to start off his career. That is where he began his Auburn career before taking over the shortstop position. Even at his small frame of 5-foot-9 and 165 pounds, he hits the ball well and with power. The D-backs have regressed over the last several seasons hitting, so Bliss could jump into the lineup in a few seasons with nice minor league numbers.
Richard Fitts – New York Yankees
Not many prospective pitchers in the Yankees organization match Fitts’ 6-foot-3, 215-pound frame. This seems to be a great fit for both sides. Fitts can pitch as a starter or out of the bullpen, so that gives the Yankees plenty of ways to use him. Fitts is a bit of a project as he is still working on his complimentary slider. He sits in the mid-90s with his fastball, but has hit 97 mph. As you would imagine, the Yankees have all the resources possible to give their prospects the best chance to succeed. We’ll have to wait and see what the Yankees can do with the tall righty.
Tyler Miller – Boston Red Sox
Miller played just one full year of major college baseball, but he made the most of it by leading the SEC in RBI during the 2021 regular season. The biggest factor for Miller is his ability to play several positions in the infield. He played first base for Auburn in 2021, but he can play third and second base as well. His fielding may open opportunities to prove himself, but his powerful bat will open eyes. With his lefty pull power, he would have a fun time hitting at Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium.
Steven Williams – Washington Nationals
Williams is another guy who brings defensive variety with his ability to play the corner outfield spots as well as behind the plate. He also brings a lot of power from the left-handed side ranking sixth in Auburn history for career home runs with 36. A common theme with these Auburn draftees is the size of them. Williams is one of the taller catchers that the Nationals have. Obviously, right field will be occupied by Juan Soto for the next decade or so. Williams will likely need to prove himself as a catcher within the Nationals organization.
