Yankees Select Slade Heathcott in First Round

The Yankees took Texas High School Outfielder Slade Heathcott with their first pick.

PROFILE: Height: 6'1" Weight: 195 lbs Birthdate: 9/28/90 Position: OF Throws: lefty Bats lefty.

08-09 High School Season: GP: 24 BA: .448 PA: 79 AB: 67 R: 26 H: 30 RBI: 41 2B: 12 3B:C1 HR: 9

SCOUTING REPORT: Heathcott is a five-tool player who hits to all fields and has plus power. Heathcott also pitched in high school, and has hit 95 mph on the gun, indicating he also has a strong arm in the outfield. Heathcott had ACL surgery in November, but has shown that he could still be an above-average runner.

STRENGTHS: Five-tool player across the board with excellent instincts. Can play all OF positions and is an above-average runner.

WEAKNESSES: The ACL surgery indicates that you have to watch his health concerning his knees. There have also been reports of off-the-field issues and has a questionable character.

I think if the Yankees make sure his character issues ahve been straightened out he will prove to be an excellent draft pick. He is the first position player the Yankees took in the first round since C.J. Henry (who eventually chose to paly basketball). There is no sure thing in the Yankees outfield with the several young outfielders they have. Heathcott could find himself playing on the Yankees in a couple of years if he continues to excel the way he did in high school.

PeteAbe of the Lohud Blog has an interview up already with the kid. Its stuck right in the middle of the in-game thread.