Baseball America's Jim Callis appeared on Trib Live Radio Thursday morning to discuss the upcoming MLB Draft. One interesting detail he revealed is that he thinks Florida catcher Mike Zunino could slip in the draft, and that the Pirates might take him. He also said he does not think the Pirates will take a pitcher at No. 8 overall, despite the fact that there will probably be worthy pitchers available. If Zunino isn't available, and the Bucs decide not to go with Arizona State shortstop Deven Marrero, then Florida high school outfielder Albert Almora could be a possibility.
Zunino is the best catcher in this Draft class and he has the potential to be a very good everyday big league backstop. While he does have a bit of a long swing and can struggle with offspeed stuff at times, he has bat speed and loft, meaning he should have plenty of future power. With some more consistency with his swing, he could be a middle of the order bat. Behind the plate, he's a natural leader who can run a pitching staff.
Zunino would represent excellent value for the No. 8 overall pick.
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