Keith Law

  (1:02 PM)

Everyone in favor of taking a collection to buy Steve Carlton a plane ticket to see Tom Glavine and urge him to just hang 'em up, raise your hand. Good - that should more than cover it.

Shawbler (Hillsboro, OR)

Klaw, In your mock draft 2.0 you have Scheppers falling out of the first round. What is the reason for this? Also, he wouldn't get past the Supplemental 1st would he?

Keith Law

  (1:04 PM)

"Falling" isn't the right word - nothing has changed with him. The issue is that teams aren't 100% comfortable with his medicals, and they know he's not signing for slot after the first few picks. One scouting director told me "that's our doctor's call." So no team is strongly aligning themselves with him, and there really aren't enough teams willing to go that far over slot for me to fit him, Crow, Matzek, Strasburg, Ackley, Purke, Green, Paxton, Oliver, Goodwin, etc. all in the first round.

Jon (DC)

Keith, in Stark's article on the draft Jayson Werth is quoted as saying, "You should get paid for what you do, for what you've done. That's what free agency's for -- to get paid for what you could do, for what you might possibly do. It's not what the draft is for." Is this guy insane?

Keith Law

  (1:05 PM)

Insane, no. Economically illiterate, perhaps. A bigger question is why we're asking current players who are already well past their time in the draft what they think about it. They're not agents. They're not draft prospects. And God knows they're not economists. What exactly do they have to offer?

Mark

Klaw, Yesterday Frank Wren said that they could deal Morton and Locke because of their depth of pitching prospects and then alluded to the fact that Roy Clark has zoned in on a few pitchers that will be available at the 7 pick. Is it just a foregone conclusion around baseball that the Braves will take a pitcher at 7? or did Wren tip his hand? ... or both?

Keith Law

  (1:07 PM)

They're taking a pitcher at 7. I know they love Matzek and had a crew in to see him last week, but he may not get there, and I don't think he'll take slot at 7. Zack Wheeler is the obvious choice - local kid, absolutely worthy of the pick at 7, committed to a second-tier college, will sign for slot.

Jim (CT)

I know you are going to talk draft, but can you give us a quick opinion on the McLouth to Atlanta deal?

Keith Law

  (1:09 PM)

Like it a lot for Pittsburgh - Morton could go right in their rotation, Gorkys is a ++ defender with a chance to hit (he hasn't been good this year but he's also 21 in AA), Locke is a high-upside LHP with three pitches who has shown good feel and command in the past. That's a lot of talent - and difficult-to-get talent, since players up the middle and LHP are hard to acquire in trade or free agency - for a guy who is, what, an average outfielder? Fringe-average? Since 6/1/08 McLouth has hit .256/.327/.447 if you exclude his 7 IBB, and he's not good in CF.

Arkeen (Palo Alto, CA)

Keith, who have you been hearing is high on the San Francisco Giants draft board at number 6? It seems like every mock out there has them taking a different player.

Keith Law

  (1:10 PM)

I know Tim Wheeler was at their workout at AT&T park yesterday - one guy there told me there was "no question" who was the better player between him and Brett Jackson - and I believe Wheeler is very much in their mix. I've also heard them linked to the main HS pitchers, like Matzek and Wheeler.

Gold Glove (Nate McLouth's hands)

What about me?!?! Do I mean nothing?!?!

Keith Law

  (1:11 PM)

Correct. You mean nothing. Sorry to trigger an existential crisis.

Chris (NYC)

What's your take on Bryce Harper getting his GED and enrolling in JUCO? Do you think MLB would try to block him?

Keith Law

  (1:13 PM)

That rumor has been out there since last August when he exploded on the scene at the Area Code Games. I think it's the right thing for him as a prospect; he's ready to come out, and the 2010 draft class looks weaker than the 2011 class. I'm not sure it's right for him as a person, though - skipping two years of HS, going pro at 17 ... not making a legal argument, but almost a paternal one. MLB isn't that stupid - they might try to block the next kid, but once Harper has started the process, if they try to block him, they will be sued and they will lose. Maybe they could hire the NCAA's lawyers and give us some comic relief along the way.

Brian (Brooklyn)

Keith what are the requirements for someone to be an International Free Agent as opposed to being subject to the June amateur draft? Could Bryce Harper or Starsburg move to the Dominican Republic tomorrow and fall under the international FA umbrella?

Keith Law

  (1:14 PM)

No. They would have to cede their US citizenship and live abroad for at least one year.

Austin Wood

My arm hurts.

Keith Law

  (1:14 PM)

I can only imagine.

Derek (Minneapolis)

KLAW--thank you for chatting. Please tell me that the Twins will not take a toolsy prep OF in this draft. I'm okay with pitchers...but we also need some infielders in our system, if the FO has not noticed that.

Keith Law

  (1:15 PM)

You can't force it, though - if the best players available aren't in an area of need, would you rather see them overdraft someone? I do know they like Jiovanni Mier, who is the best HS SS in the draft and would be a good pick there, and I've heard them on various arms, as well as the Trout-Williams-Fuentes group.

Mark (SF, CA)

Why do you say Gorkys hasn't been good this year ? Isn't he hitting over .300 with a .360 OB ?

Keith Law

  (1:16 PM)

He's hitting something like .450 on balls in play. That may not quite be sustainable.

Ryan ( Middletown, Connecticut)

I?ve noticed that in your mock drafts, you have slated the Yankees to draft both a pitcher (mock draft 1) and an outfielder (mock draft 2). Given the Yankees recent drafts it?s easy to see the trend of drafting quality starting pitching, but the organization seems to be lacking many positional talents. Do you believe the Yankees will address this need in the first day of the draft this year, or do you think it is more likely they will continue to stock pile big arms?

Keith Law

  (1:17 PM)

Again, you don't address need in the MLB draft, unless you don't really enjoy being a scouting director and would like to be forcibly reassigned.

Godish (Chicago)

How many $5 fines did you pass along during your interactions on the Comments section about Austin Wood and the other kid?

Keith Law

  (1:18 PM)

It was pretty much three posters who didn't get it, one of whom was arguing against pitch counts, which really had little to do with why I thought those two halfwit coaches should have been fired on Monday morning. It was more about using relievers who were already fatigued and who weren't stretched out to safely handle that kind of workload. But that one commenter just showed up with his anti-pitch-counts agenda and he wasn't going to let anything get in his way.

Steve (Fremont, CA)

I've noticed that several sources have Austin Maddox in their Top 50, but he's not even in your Top 100. What are your thoughts on him?

Keith Law

  (1:19 PM)

Should go to college. He's not that good of a hitter or a catcher that I'd take him in the top 3 rounds, and beyond that I doubt he's signable anyway. I'm not sure why anyone would have him top 50 right now.

Victor (NYC)

Where would Bryce Harper rank in your top 100 if he was eligible for the draft this year?

Keith Law

  (1:19 PM)

#2.

Augie Garrido (Texas)

I know you normally only chat for an hour or so, but I need you to chat for 12 hours today, is that going to be a problem?

Keith Law

  (1:20 PM)

After you had me chat for 90 minutes yesterday? Well, I'd say no, but then you'll tell people I'm soft and I don't want the keyboard, so ... um ... "Don't even think about taking this laptop away from me."

Robin (Toronto)

The Jays have the 20th pick. Has JP given any indications of who they are going after? Who would make sense for the Jays at #20?

Keith Law

  (1:22 PM)

I've heard them mostly on pitchers - Minor, Heckathorn, Jenkins, Chad James. There isn't likely to be a good position player there who'll sign at or near slot, so it makes sense.

Jimmy (Cherry Hill, NJ)

Are you going to do a write up on the McLouth to Braves deal? Have you even had time to sleep the last month?

Keith Law

  (1:23 PM)

About five hours last night, although that is partially my daughter's fault for sauntering in to our room at 7 am and saying "It's a sunny day!"

LW (MI)

Turner to Detroit?

Keith Law

  (1:24 PM)

That's the industry's thinking right now. He sure is David Chadd's kind of guy - loves power arms - but I haven't heard this directly from the Tigers, just from several independent sources.

Keith Law

  (1:25 PM)

Sorry, just got a note from Jason ... I'll pass it along in a minute.

Bill: (South Jersey)

Hey Keith, if you were Ruben Amaro trying to trade for a starter, rank these guys from who you would be willing to give up to guys you would want to hang on to. Happ, Bastardo, Victorino, Marson, Donald, Brown, Taylor, Carrasco, and Drabek.

Keith Law

  (1:26 PM)

Happ, Marson, and Carrasco would all be guys I'd shop, and probably Donald just because I have no spot for him. I'm not a believer in Marson's bat. Happ is a fringe 5th starter-type. I think those guys may have more value to other clubs, particularly, say, the Padres, who value performance highly.

Doug (NY)

Keith, as I asked in the comments section of your revised mock, with the Yanks taking Heathcott instead of Scheppers or Purke, is it possible that they're being fiscally responsible (impossible right?). Or is Heathcott the BPA? Without the "baggage", where would he be in your top 100?

Keith Law

  (1:28 PM)

I didn't downgrade much him on the baggage, but he wasn't 100% healthy this spring and was only OK for me in a couple of looks last summer. I could be a little light on him - he's a great athlete and absurdly strong - but I don't think he'd be my guy at 29. Not a bad pick, just not my top choice.

Kyle (md)

Keith, who to you think the O's will end up taking at #5?

Keith Law

  (1:28 PM)

Crow or Matzek.

Brian (Alexandria)

Klaw, how much of an overdraft is Jenkins @ #10? Would Trout or Myers be better options?

Keith Law

  (1:32 PM)

It's a reach for me but he will take slot or below at 10. If Trout's there, I'd take him over Jenkins. Same for Myers. I'd be surprised if Dana Brown passed on a NJ kid in favor of Jenkins.

Mike (San Diego)

The Padres aren't going to screw up the draft again are they? I'm getting nervous.

Keith Law

  (1:33 PM)

I haven't heard this Mike Minor rumor - the guy I spoke to there indicated that he wasn't that high on their board. If for some reason Seattle passes on Ackley, I think San Diego would take him and call it a day.

Brad (Georgia)

Keith, what is your take on Ohio U.'s Marc Krauss? Any chance he falls to the Braves' second pick at no. 87, and any chance they'd take him?

Keith Law

  (1:35 PM)

I think he goes 2nd or early 3rd round. I do have a scouting report of him posted in the draft database. And no way Atlanta takes a college outfielder that high. Who was the last one? Mike Kelly?

Keith Law

  (1:36 PM)

Quick break - phone call i need to take.

Keith Law

  (1:48 PM)

Sorry, I'm back.

Derrick (Tulsa, OK)

What is your projection for SS- Mychal Givens, both draft wise and pro potential? I've heard signability is an issue with him, how far might he drop because of that?

Keith Law

  (1:50 PM)

The bigger question on him is his position. I think he's a pitcher in pro ball because I don't buy his bat. I think there are maybe a half-dozen teams or so that see him as a shortstop who can learn to hit ... but are you taking a kid in the first round and paying him $1MM+ so you can teach him how to hit? Good luck with that. Anyway, I don't know even roughly what his price tag is so I'm not going to speculate on the second part of the question. If he drops, I think it's more because it's not really clear what he is in pro ball.

Mark (nj)

How high would a healthy Luke Bailey have gone?

Keith Law

  (1:50 PM)

Mid-first.

Brian (Omaha)

Can the Rangers get lucky a second year in a row with Alex White falling this time? or is he a lock to go sooner?

Keith Law

  (1:51 PM)

I think they'll have better options available. I also don't think he's a lock to go sooner.

Jason (St Louis)

Are you going to go to the Future's game during All Star weekend? If so I was wondering where I should look for you at. I'd love to see Klaw in person and I don't imagine you'll be back to St Louis any time soon

Keith Law

  (1:51 PM)

I'll be there, somewhere behind the plate with the scouts.

Divyesh (Provo, UT)

Thoughts on the Glavine debacle?

Keith Law

  (1:51 PM)

Good move by Atlanta. No room for sentiment.

Mike (St. Louis)

Are the Cards making a mistake by placing a priority on drafting LHP in the 1st round or does the talent available make sense with their pick?

Keith Law

  (1:52 PM)

It is possible that the best player available to them will in fact be a LHP - more than just a little possible. I think if someone clearly better falls to them, they'll reconsider, but they want LHP in the system and they see in the way the board is lining up that two or three of the five best guys available to them might be LHP.

Alex (Knoxville, TN)

Take us away from the draft for just a minute: do you have problem with Laird trying to bunt for a hit in the 6th last night to try to break up Beckett's potential no-no or with the fact that Beckett plunked him his next time up?

Keith Law

  (1:53 PM)

The bunt is kind of weak, but easily remedied by drilling his weak --- next time up.

Fred (Houston)

Where do you project Rice's Ryan Berry going in the draft? I realize Rice pitchers don't have the best pro track records, but I love watching this kid pitch.

Keith Law

  (1:53 PM)

He was hurt for about six weeks - would have gone 2nd-3rd round but now I'm not sure how far he falls, probably to a spot where he's not signable.

Manny Parra (Milwaukee) [via mobile]

Am I ever going to figure this out?

Keith Law

  (1:54 PM)

I'm waiting for the inevitable DL stint due to a shoulder injury. I think your future is probably in the pen.

Davis (cedar city, UT)

Any idea on the Reds at 8? People in Cincinnati are hoping for Crow, but there's no way that happens, right?

Keith Law

  (1:55 PM)

I don't think Crow gets there. I think they're hoping Matzek falls to them. I know they like Green, and I'm not sure where they fall on the Scheppers thing, although I do know Chris Buckley was willing to take some pitchers with injury profiles when he was with Toronto, including a kid named Dustin McGowan.

Doug (NY)

Would the Yanks do with Scheppers what they did with Brackman.... draft him knowing full well that he's injured and may need surgery?

Keith Law

  (1:56 PM)

No, and they're not comparable. By all accounts, Scheppers is fully healthy right now - clearance from Dr. Yocum, good velocity, good command. The issue is that he was hurt last summer and the nature of his injury is concerning some teams.

Mike (Indianapolis)

Do you have a problem with college coaches leaving SP's out for 125 pitches if they pitch once a week?

Keith Law

  (1:56 PM)

No, not in the general case.

Ryan (CT)

I was wondering if you could settle this argument: Gone With The Wind or Casablanca?

Keith Law

  (1:57 PM)

Haven't seen GWTW yet. Still reading, with about 400 pages to go.

Patrick (Cheyenne, WY)

Hey Klaw does any place use Green chile better than Albuquerque, some co workers think they Arizona and California have better green chile, there crazy,right?

Keith Law

  (1:58 PM)

You're right - they are crazy.

mike IL

Brett Jackson- good pick for the Cubs or not?

Keith Law

  (1:58 PM)

I'd call it a reach - his inability to make contact with metal in his hands is a pretty serious issue.

NL Northeast Crosschecker

I saw Chris Dwyer agaisnt BC early in the spring and thought his control was awful. Would he benefit staying in school one more season or take the money and run?

Keith Law

  (1:59 PM)

He might get drafted pretty high now because it's a weak year overall. If he doesn't get, say, third-round money, he could probably do better by going back.

Scott Boras, My Own Country (Boristan)

What if a player had dual citizenship and established residency in another country? Could they then be an intl free agent?

Keith Law

  (2:00 PM)

Yes. Nearly happened last year with JC Sulbaran, who has Dutch citizenship. That's how he ended up getting fourth-round money in the ~30th round.

Jared (Chicago)

Will Trout be around for the Sox at 23? How does Everett Williams compare to him?

Keith Law

  (2:00 PM)

Unlikely. Williams is smaller, stronger right now, not quite as good of an athlete (but close), a little better in center, has more issues with contact.

Daniel (Louisville, KY)

What was on that note from Jason?

Keith Law

  (2:02 PM)

That Seattle is "50/50" between Ackley and one other guy. Probably Crow. If they take Crow (or Scheppers), San Diego probably takes Ackley, and Baltimore ... I'd guess Matzek at that point if Crow is gone.

Kevin (San Diego)

Have you heard the Padres attached to Matzek at all?

Keith Law

  (2:02 PM)

No. I don't think he's in their mix.

Kyle (OH)

KLaw, in your blog post last week a I responded to a comment that the Orioles shouldn't take Grant Green at #5 because a) He's not top-5 talent b) Even though they need a SS, don't draft on need c) He doesn't project as a MLB SS and his bat his questionable to move to 3B or 1B (his real position should be CF) Are these all good points? (Some USC blowhard said that his bat is great because he batted .400 something the final two months of the season...I administered him a $5 fine in the comments section).

Keith Law

  (2:03 PM)

I think you did a solid job - sorry I didn't see the comment. It might be more fair to say that it's not certain that he's a MLB SS - some scouts and teams do see him as a SS. I am skeptical but I wouldn't put my confidence on that call at 100%.

Remember me (Goign Nowhere Fast, USA)

What happened to 0Daniel Webb?

Keith Law

  (2:03 PM)

Struggled badly in his first year at whatever Okaloosa Walton JC is calling itself these days.

Matt (Chicago)

Hey Keith, Any favorite tv shows?

Keith Law

  (2:05 PM)

I watch very little TV. House. Law & Order (been watching since the beginning - seen all but 2 episodes). NCIS (lame plots, but good characters and dialogue). I'll watch Psych with the wife. And no, I don't get HBO or Showtime, because ... I don't watch that much television.

Steve (Altoona, PA)

So even with the Pirates picking up two arms yesterday do you still see them going with an arm in the 1st round, or do they reach a bit and get a much-needed middle infielder?

Keith Law

  (2:06 PM)

You might - just might - want to check out something I've written before posting a question here. I'm just throwing it out there, I know it's crazy talk, but humor me and give it a shot. Because, you know, in TWO first-round projections, I haven't had them going with an arm or a middle infielder.

Augie Garrido (Texas)

Oh, after you're done chatting for 12 hours, I might hit the road. I know I've had a few to drink, but what am I, a leader of a bunch of young, impressionable males?

Keith Law

  (2:07 PM)

Apparently, you're beyond criticism. Because that's the only defense I've seen anyone offer. You're Augie ben Doggie, Texas' only hope.

Eric, IA

Favorite David Lynch movie?

Keith Law

  (2:08 PM)

I think I've only seen Wild at Heart. First season of Twin Peaks was awesome, though.

Mike (Fitchburg, MA)

Hi Klaw, Do you have a scouting report on Mike Yastrzemski (Yaz's grandson), OF/LHP from St. John's Prep in MA? What is his projected draft round/slot? How strong is his commitment to Vandy? Sox in on him being that he's local and has obvious ties to them?

Keith Law

  (2:08 PM)

Saw him last summer and had him as a "college guy" (meaning a nice HS player who should go to college rather than sign).

Ben (San Francisco)

In what ways is Scott Boras good for baseball?

Keith Law

  (2:09 PM)

He in particular and agents in general help prevent owners from screwing the players. Do you really want to return to the bad old days of the '50s where the owners could do whatever they want, like cut a superstar's pay arbitrarily, or keep blacks out of the game because they felt like it?

Jeff Francouer (Atlanta, GA)

If on-base percentage was so important, why don't they put it on the scoreboard? Oh wait... they do? OK, I'll admit it - I am an abomination of a baseball player.

Keith Law

  (2:10 PM)

Admitting you have a problem is the first step. The second step is reporting to Pearl, Mississippi, in time for tomorrow's game.

Mike (Fitchburg, MA)

Casey Kelly in 5 years...SP/RP or SS? ETA to the majors?

Keith Law

  (2:10 PM)

SP. In the majors by then.

Tony LaRussa (St. Louis)

I'm advising Augie Garrido to sue this chat.

Keith Law

  (2:10 PM)

As long as he uses the NCAA's attorneys, I'm fine with that.

Doug (NY)

Mock v3 coming out soon?

Keith Law

  (2:10 PM)

There will be one on Monday and another on Tuesday. I may do one in between if I hear enough new info.

D. Willis (Detroit)

Should I really be jumping up and down on the mound when an ump doesn't give me the boarderline strike call?

Keith Law

  (2:11 PM)

I didn't realize you were capable of throwing a borderline strike. Everything seems to be down the gut or to the backstop.

Tom (Boston, MA)

Would Alex Meyer have been worth the dough?

Keith Law

  (2:12 PM)

I think he should have taken the money. Kentucky pitchers haven't fared all that well in the draft of late and they get worked pretty hard.

Dave Pueblo Colorado

If Grant Green is gone by KC's pick, will KC go with pitching either the HS or college route? Looks like several top 10 talents will be dropping due to Pirates and Nats decision making.

Keith Law

  (2:12 PM)

I'd guess middle infielder or catcher there. Sounds like the preference is for up the middle help.

Jason (PHX)

Have you heard anyone in particular being mentioned with the dbacks at 16 and 17? Do you think Mike Leake will be available?

Keith Law

  (2:13 PM)

Leake will be gone. I know Pollock had a good workout for them yesterday.

Scott (San Diego, CA)

Not sure if you read Stark's article yet, but do you have a problem if Stasburg gets $20 mil (no way $50 mil is in play)

Keith Law

  (2:14 PM)

No. He should get whatever he and his agent are able to get. If he was a free agent, he'd get way more than $20 million.

Scott (San Diego, CA)

Strasburg and Ackley are gone - who does Towers take at #3 and who you take if you were the GM?

Keith Law

  (2:14 PM)

Crow or Matzek, probably.

Tim (Saint Paul, MN)

Where does Desmond Jenning's stellar season put him on the prospect lists next year if he stays healthy?

Keith Law

  (2:15 PM)

Potentially in the top 10.

John (Connecticut)

Pick one: Whichever HS arm Atlanta likely takes at #7, or the recently departed Jeff Locke

Keith Law

  (2:15 PM)

Probably the guy they take at 7.

Tim (Chitown)

Gordon Beckham is making ML debut today for White Sox, who is next in line out of last year's draft? And the most likely major league ready in this year's?

Keith Law

  (2:16 PM)

Smoak or Posey. For bats this year, is there anyone other than Ackley? He's the default option.

Mike (Boston)

Do FO people ever ask you your opinion on a player?

Keith Law

  (2:17 PM)

Yes.

Bo (TX)

You're the Rangers brass and have two young lefthanders in Holland and Harrison. Do you take a serious look at Glavine as both a stopgap for Holland and a mentor for both?

Keith Law

  (2:17 PM)

Oh. My. God. No.

Ben (Denver)

Was Vincente Padilla officially released by the Rangers? If so, what teams might consider picking him up?

Keith Law

  (2:18 PM)

I thought I read he was placed on outright waivers. Release would come if he clears (1 pm tomorrow). Of course, when they placed on him on waivers, he slipped and fell and broke his nose.

Joel (Portland, OR)

Re: the necessity of agents, that was your argument -- blacks get to play and arbitrary cuts in pay...i think there's a middle ground somewhere to be found, because as we've witnessed recently, a market driven economy is not always best. And as a fan, the costs of taking my son to game are proof of that...and i think we've turned a corner where the owners inability to play hardball with the agents is the real issue.

Keith Law

  (2:19 PM)

Sorry, what you pay to go to a game is not caused by what the players make. It's a brutal fallacy, because the owners push it, economically ignorant journalists repeat it, and fans believe it.

Doug (NY)

Opinion on the Burnett suspension?

Keith Law

  (2:19 PM)

No opinion.

Ed( San Diego,CA)

Ackley bat = Helton bat?

Keith Law

  (2:19 PM)

No.

Derrick (Tulsa, OK)

Is Chad James solidly in the 1st round? Is signability an issue for him?

Keith Law

  (2:20 PM)

Yes. Only if he slides to the end of the round.

Dave (NY)

I work in a library and came across a random book arguing for consideration of the NCAA as a cartel. Agree?

Keith Law

  (2:22 PM)

Agree. What's your other option if you're a football or basketball star out of HS? Or even baseball? Sure, you can go play in the minors or the NDBL, or in an NAIA school, but if you want to simultaneously get some sort of college education (that is, a backup plan, since odds aren't really in your favor for having a pro career) and play your chosen sport in a place where you'll be seen by pro evaluators, you are pretty much limited to the NCAA.

Brandon (KC)

If the Cardinal's draft Brothers wouldn't that be a bit of a reach? I get tired of watching them reach for College arms please tell me they won't go back to it...

Keith Law

  (2:22 PM)

Not a reach. At worst I think you've got a front-line pen guy. At best he's a 2/3 starter with that raw stuff.

Marie (Daly City, CA)

Are there any other position players that the giants may be considering with the 6th pick? And do they have any interest in Mike Leake? Tim Wheeler seems to be a bit of a reach for me.

Keith Law

  (2:23 PM)

I think he's the bat if they want a position player. Otherwise it'll be an arm. Have not heard them on Leake at all. I agree that Wheeler would be a reach.

Jim (NJ)

When you make burgers, what kind of beef do you use, 85%? 87%, 90% or 93%?

Keith Law

  (2:24 PM)

85%. 93% produces hockey pucks.

James (LA)

If the Braves have their choice of Wheeler or White at #7, who should they take?

Keith Law

  (2:24 PM)

Wheeler.

Tom Glavine (Unemployment Line)

Why should the Rangers not take a serious look at me?

Keith Law

  (2:25 PM)

Because you weren't any good in the NL. You're going to help an AL team in a hitters' park? Ha!

Doug (NY)

Let me rephrase, then....okay that he got one (standing up for his teammate) while Padilla (the instigator) didn't?

Keith Law

  (2:25 PM)

I didn't see any of it. I'm not going to make up an opinion.

Trey (West Blocton, AL)

As a Tide fan, I thoroughly enjoyed watching Kent Matthes' season unfold, which culminated with a D-1A-leading 28 home runs. However, the transition to wood is a daunting task for a lot of college 'power bats' (Mike McDougal, et al). How do you think his power will translate to the pros, and in what round do you see him being picked?

Keith Law

  (2:27 PM)

3rd-5th round. I think I made this point in an earlier chat - he's old for his level now, and when he was the right age or young for D-1, he didn't perform well at all. Bad track record would absolutely push him down my board - it's the reason he's not on my top 100.

Matt (Philly)

Re: Strasburg as a free agent would get more than $20 mil. He's not a free agent though, he's a draft eligible amateur.

Keith Law

  (2:29 PM)

That's a distinction made by MLB, for the purposes of holding down how much they have to pay him. There's no reasonable argument why an amateur shouldn't be able to get a market salary or bonus. That type of restriction doesn't exist outside of sports.

CC (Atlanta)

How many baseball organizations do you think actually lose money in a given year? You are clearly very anti-owner (which is bizarre) so I'm curious as your answer.

Keith Law

  (2:31 PM)

Ooh, a new bias claim - now I'm anti-owner! I'd guess that fewer than five genuinely lose money in any given year. I saw the books in Toronto - the huge losses that were reported were partly due to transfer pricing that shifted media rights revenues to the radio and TV divisions of the parent company. I'm sure most clubs do the same thing (and as far as I know, it's perfectly legal to do so).

Christian (San Diego, CA)

Your take on Mat Latos, Gammons said that scouts say his stuff is similar to AJ Burnett. Is he a top 50 prospect next year?

Keith Law

  (2:31 PM)

Could be top 50 - could be top 30. But his stuff isn't as good as Burnett's.

Matt (Philly)

Klaw - this is a sport though. You dont make millions of dollars throwing a ball or hitting something with a bat outside of sports.

Keith Law

  (2:32 PM)

It's a business. Like any other. Musicians don't have to be drafted by record labels. Actors aren't drafted by studios.

ben, la

any word on where kelly dugan might go in the draft? I think hes working out for the marlins today. Ive heard anything from 3rd to 6th round

Keith Law

  (2:32 PM)

I've heard 4th-6th.

MJ (Edmonton)

keith I saw you played (and liked) Ticket To Ride. I've seen that game in the game stores but never looked at it - can I get a brief summary of what the game is about?

Keith Law

  (2:33 PM)

After the draft, I'll do a dish post on all the new boardgames we've tried this year with a revised ranking. Not now, though./

Jeremy (NY)

Keith, that's ridiculous to exclude McLouths IBBs. You can't just do that to prove your point. I don't think I've ever seen a slash line with IBBs taken out before.

Keith Law

  (2:35 PM)

You haven't seen it before, therefore ... it's ridiculous? If the point is to look at past hitting performance to give us some sense of future performance, why would you credit him with something the opposing manager decided to do? Are you going to evaluate #8 hitters in the NL without looking at the IBB column? But the best part is that you're mad that I took out those IBBs because you know it reveals that McLouth has been pretty meh as a hitter for a full year now. In fact, outside of a two-month outlier period, this is pretty much what he is.

Kevin S. (Evanston, IL)

Keith, I think I'm missing a reference here. Why are you calling Garrido "Auggie ben Doggie?" If it's derisive, I'm fine with that (I share your opinion on what he did to Wood), just curious as to where that particular name came from.

Keith Law

  (2:37 PM)

If I make fun of your youth for the second time in a week, you might never come back. Google it.

Ryan (Boston)

How do you feel about Joan Didion? I'm thinking of taking the plunge on Play It As It Lays.

Keith Law

  (2:37 PM)

Didn't do much for me but it's a quick read.

Rick (Portland, OR)

Who is worse - Yankee fans who throw out garbage trade possibilities or people who are against free enterprise? I've gotta go delusional Yankee fan personally.

Keith Law

  (2:38 PM)

People who are opposed to players making market salaries and yet, if their son was in that situation, would switch to my opinion so fast their clothes would still be on the other side oft the fence.

Tom ( Mobile, AL)

David Renfroe, what are the chances he ends up at Ole Miss instead of the minors?

Keith Law

  (2:39 PM)

Sounds like teams are on him as high as the second round. I'd guess he ends up in pro ball.

Tim (chicago)

Keith, So you are down on White then I take it. 94 mph fastball, nice secondary pitches. What is not to like?

Keith Law

  (2:41 PM)

What is not to like ... is that that is not a scouting report of White. I've got both his offspeed pitches graded below average right now, and he topped out at 92 the day I saw him, although I know he has thrown harder at other times.

Joshua B. (Syracuse, NY)

Brothers, Chad James and Everett Williams are all on the board at 21, who does Houston take?

Keith Law

  (2:42 PM)

I had them taking none of the above in my last projection, but if you're asking for one of those three, I'd say James. I'm not sure he gets there though - Florida, St. Louis, and Toronto are all interested in him.

Brandon (KC)

Just read that you watch NCIS, out of all the great characters who is your favorite? You going to watch the new NCIS:LA?

Keith Law

  (2:43 PM)

Ziva, for obvious reasons. Although the malaprop joke got old a year ago. The new show needs to replace the blond actress playing the head of the unit. And the brunette who makes one face for every emotion, just squinting and nodding her head.

Hypocrites and Illogic (Everywhere)

Wait, so now you have a bias against us? You're unbelievable!

Keith Law

  (2:44 PM)

Go sit in the corner next to Mystique and Aura.

Pete (Stl)

The Cardinals called up Jess Todd today. Were they premature moving him to the bullpen this year?

Keith Law

  (2:44 PM)

No, that's his future. He relies so heavily on his slider that I don't think he could work out as a starter.

Chemistry

Don't forget me.

Keith Law

  (2:45 PM)

I thought I killed you last year and buried you under the floorboards.

CC (Atlanta)

So if you're all about the free market, then you would have no problems with say the Rockies and Marlins closing up shop?

Keith Law

  (2:45 PM)

Why would they close up shop? There is no shortage of interested buyers - in fact, I think the market could easily support a couple of additional teams, but MLB artificially restricts it.

Adam (Spokane, WA)

There are whispers that Scheppers, Purke, and Paxton could all fall to the bottom of round 1. Who do you take and why?

Keith Law

  (2:46 PM)

Scheppers. Big arm, should move quick to the majors, has track record.

Most Feared

I'll see myself to the corner.

Intangibles

I'm the real test.

Keith Law

  (2:46 PM)

It's like a murderer's row of stupid ideas.

Clutchiness

Dont forget me!

Keith Law

  (2:46 PM)

Grit? Are you there?

JP (Columbus, OH)

Yes, KLaw. You are anti-owner. You don't think they should be able to bar minorities, you don't think they should be able to pay their talent some random lowball salary...jeez, what DO you think owners should be allowed to do?

Keith Law

  (2:47 PM)

Sit back and count their guaranteed profits and eventual capital gains.

MW (GB, WI)

It really bothers me that people are still using MLB's idiotic past practices as justification for their idiotic present (and potential future) practices. That said, how long do you think it will take before MLB figures it out and lets teams trade draft picks? It solves a lot more problems than it "creates".

Keith Law

  (2:48 PM)

I don't know that anyone is really pushing for it. I think agents should be, but I don't think they are.

CC (Atlanta)

You're missing the point... in a free market companies close, the # of jobs fluctuates, competitors merge. In baseball each team relies on the other 29's success (at least financially). MLB is nothing like your typical industry so why compare it to one?

Keith Law

  (2:49 PM)

You're saying that the Yankees would be hurt if two or even four teams folded? That's just wrong. But thanks for playing.

JoeyO (San Fernando, Ca.)

Whats up Keith. What do you think of Oakland's pitching staff and who do you think they will take with the 13th pick?

Keith Law

  (2:50 PM)

I think if Leake gets there, that's their guy. I know they're keeping their list pretty open, though ... every team is, because this first round is so strange. You don't really know who's getting to you unless you're Seattle at #2.

Talent

I just came into the room and kicked all their ...

Keith Law

  (2:51 PM)

That's all the time I have today! Current plan has me chatting on Tuesday before the draft, and again on Wednesday during day two. Thanks for all the questions.