In the first of at least (hopefully) 10 MLB Draft profiles, we look at a lean left-side-of-the-infield thumper in Peyton Graham of Oklahoma.
Vitals
6’4, 185 pounds
Position: Shortstop/third base
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
DOB: Jan. 26, 2001
Location
Norman, Okla.
Year: Junior
Rankings
The Athletic: 45
Baseball America: 42
CBS Sports: NR
ESPN: 69
MLB Pipeline: 33
Prospects Live: 45
Slot recommended bonus (No. 29): $1,950,900
Note: All information of draft prospects compiled from Internet sources, scouting reports and videos.
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Graham is one of the more intriguing prospects who might be available for the Dodgers at No. 40. He has a tantalizing combination of ability, athleticism and tools. And he has the ability to play many different positions, which is sure to pique LA’s interest.
He made a change to his stride in season (as you’ll see in the videos below). Since that time, he has unlocked some more power and has taken off. He has quick hands and generates good bat speed. Graham does most of his damage to the pull side, but he has shown the ability to go the other way with some authority. Where he struggles is with swing-and-miss and pitch selection. While his strikeout rate has decreased a bit, he’ll have to do some work on it when he gets to the pros.
Defensively, he profiles better long-term at third base, but he has played a capable shortstop for the Sooners in 2022. He could probably handle second base and a corner outfield spot at the next level, if needed. He’s not going to hurt a Honestly, the profile is a lot like Chris Taylor without the ability to play center field.]
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Video
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Graham is a junior and should be a relatively easy sign if he’s popped at No. 40. He has some boom-or-bust in him, but the Dodgers are not opposed to taking higher-risk players with their first selection.