#6

#6 Brian Morris, RHP
Background: Originally tabbed as one of the top prep pitchers of the 2005 class, he was a third round selection of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. After agreeing to sign, TB's management nixed the deal and Morris went to Motlow St CC where his father is a coach. With an impressive campaign, Morris looked like he wouldnt make it to the draft until the D Rays received MLB's recommended bonus and offered him under $1 million. Morris re-entered the draft and was selected 26th overall by the Dodgers, garnering a bonus in excess of $1.3 million. He's 6'3, 200 lbs and bats left while throwing right. His DOB is March 28, 1987.
Strengths: Morris' bread and butter is his curveball. It was rated as one of the best breaking balls in both the 2005 and 2006 drafts. It has hard, late bite and is a swing and miss pitch. His fastball sits in the low 90s, occasionally topping off in the mid 90s. He also has an average slider and an unrefined changeup.
Weaknesses: Morris doesnt have the prettiest delivery in the world. While odd and rushed, it is functional. In his first taste of pro ball, Morris has struggled with his command. He'll need to refine his changeup or slider in order to mix in a third offering.
Future: Despite a rocky beginning, Morris should find himself starting 2007 in Vero Beach's rotation. He should be sped through the minors, in the mold of Chad Billingsley or Justin Orenduff.