Scouting the 2019 Draft: Brennan Malone

Brennan Malone, RHP, HS.   DOB:  9/8/2000.  6'3", 203 lbs.(PG lists at 6'5', 210 lbs)

Young, athletic righty with a big fastball that gets up to 97 MPH in bursts but generally sits in the low 90's.  Scouts think there is more in the tank based on peak velocities and projectability.  His secondary stuff is in early development, but per Perfect Game, his curveball improved with each outing.  He is moving to IMG Academy which faces stronger competition than most high schools.

On video, Malone shows strength in his upper legs with moderate drop and drive.  His arm action is fluid with moderate effort.  The frame is strong with some projection to add weight and strength although weight could become a problem in the future.

MLB Pipleline ranks him #10.  Fangraphs has him at #20 and PG has him at #4 overall draft prospect.  I like this kid a lot although with so many great hitters in this draft, the demographic risk may be more palatable later in the first round than the Giants at #10.

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DrB's Updated 2019 Draft Board:

1.  Bobby Witt Jr., SS, HS.  5-tool athlete with MLB bloodline who can stick at SS.

2.  Adley Rutschman, C, College(Oregon St).  Excellent catching prospect whose bat had a huge sophomore breakout.

3.  CJ Abrams, SS, HS.  4+ tool prospect with best wheels in draft.  Power lags a bit.

4.  Shea Langeliers, C, College(Baylor).   Solid catching prospect with potential for a plus bat.

5.  Andrew Vaughn, 1B, College(Cal).  Top college power bat in the draft.  The numbers guys will like him better than the scouts.

6.  Josh Jung, 3B, College(Texas Tech).  Disciplined bat with power potential.  Has arm to play 3B at highest level.

7. Riley Greene, OF, HS.  Top HS bat in draft with an advanced hit tool with plus power.  Lack of speed puts a lot of pressure on the bat.

8.  Brennan Malone, RHP, HS.  Ideal pitcher's size and frame with projectability in a fastball that already reaches 97 MPH.

9.  Graeme Stinson, LHP, College(Duke).  Jumbo sized lefty with "plus-plus" slider.  Low risk/high floor prospect, but I see him as a likely reliever in the pros.

10.  Carter Stewart, RHP, JC.  Has tools to be an ace. Will need to overcome health concerns after "failing" physical with Braves last year.