Scouting the Draft: Giants Sign UDFA Tyler Forner

Tyler Forner OF, HS.  B-R, T-L.  5'11", 185 lbs.

Tyler Forner is a graduate of Camas HS in Washington state.  He has a PG profile where he is credited with a 6.69 60 yd dash, which is well better than average.  OF velocity is only 76 which leads to questions about whether he has the arm to play OF. Exit velocity is a decent 83 MPH.  PG scouting report includes the following comments:  "...showed speed and range very well in the outfield, made some nice catches going up in the alley's from centerfield."  "....developing arm strength....makes accurate soft on line throws."  "....very short swing with right centerfield orientation., has hand quickness and some bat speed..."  "...high contact approach."  Good student.

Apparently Forner looked at all the undrafted college players going back to school as well as undrafted HS players choosing college.  He figured the pros offered more opportunity regardless of bonus amount and signed with the Giants.

I wonder why he bats RH when he appears to be a natural lefty.  About 75% of matchups will be against RHP's and since speed is obviously such a big part of his game, he's be a step closer to 1B batting from the left side.  I wonder if it is too late to take up switch-hitting?

The odds are against him but wish him the best and we will follow his pro career with interest when and if....