Unlike recent years the Phillies are drafting in the middle of the first round at 14th overall, their latest pick since J.P. Crawford went 16th back in 2013. It’s also the first time since Crawford the Phillies have drafted outside of the top-10.
Philadelphia’s front office has leaned heavily towards collegiate bats since Matt Klentak took over as Vice President & General Manager after the 2015 season. Prior to Klentak’s arrival Philadelphia leaned heavily on high school talent, taking players such as Cornelius Randolph, Crawford, Shane Watson, and Jesse Biddle, among others.
Since taking over, Klentak has overseen the drafting of Mickey Moniak, Adam Haseley, and Alec Bohm.