Rookie Ball Preview

I know it seems way too early to think about Rookie Ball and the draft, but I'm a prospect hound year round. As far as I know, the Dodgers' rookie league affiliates have not changed, meaning the GCL Dodgers will still be playing in Vero Beach. Now I'll look at a few 2006 draftees, one of which wont be playing this season.

With the 31st overall selection in the 2006 First Year Player Draft, the Los Angeles Dodgers select Preston Mattingly? Sure, I was surprised, as were most fans who follow the draft. Mattingly wasnt a highly touted prospect on sites like Baseball America or Perfect Game Crosschecker. But the Indiana high school product attracted plenty of scouts for his athleticism and bloodlines. The son of Don offers a different skillset than his father, starting with his speed. The 6'3 right-hander can fly for a guy his size. While he doesnt have the same natural hitting ability, Preston projects for more power and Dodger officials envision him as a middle of the order masher. Understandibly, Mattingly is raw in many facets of his game. He needs to improve his plate discipline and learn to harness his power. In the field, Preston lacks arm strength and the natural actions to stay in the middle infield. While I dont normally compare prospects to major leaguers, I see him becoming a centerfielder in the mold of Grady Sizemore or Johnny Damon. But whether or not he stays at shortstop, his bat should get him to the majors.

On the international front, Canadian first baseman/outfielder Kyle Orr was selected in the fourth round of the 2006 FYPD. The lank 6'5 Canuck draws comparisons to Justin Morneau for his power potential. Orr has a strong arm that would allow him to play right field. Like Mattingly, he'll need a good amount of seasoning in the minors and isnt expected to play full season ball until 2008. His raw power potential is prolific, but he must learn to hone his hitting ability. At his size, he's not a speedster. Kyle and Preston should give the Ogden Raptors a strong 1-2 punch in the middle of their lineup come June.

After undergoing Tommy John surgery, Bryan Morris is expected to miss the entire 2007 season, though there's a chance he could return in time for Instructional League. Prior to his operation, Morris was steadily clocked in the mid 90s and threw a devestating curveball. While his pure stuff wowed scouts during his pro debut, his production was less impressive. Bryan sported an ERA of over 5 and walked 40 batters in 60 innings. He'll need to work on his command once he returns. If he regains his fastball/curveball combination, Morris could fly through the minors and into the Dodgers rotation.

And finally, I'll conclude my preview with a look at the 2007 draft class.