MLB draft 2017 player profile: Hunter Greene, RHP/SS

Hunter Greene began draft season with much following as possible, as the highly athletic, two-way high-schooler was the leading candidate to be picked first overall. Now three weeks away from the draft, Greene’s draft stock has dipped a little, though not a reflection of his own ability. Let’s take a look at his profile.

Hunter Greene, 17 y/o | 6’4” | 210 | RHP/SS | HS Senior

Notre Dame HS, Sherman Oaks, CA

Season Stats (SP): 5 GS, 0.75 ERA, 28 innings, 43 K, 4 BB, .182 BA allowed

Season Stats (SS): 98 AB, .337/.382/.622, 6 HR, 2 3B, 6 2B, 12 K, 8 BB

Solely off his ability to play shortstop, Greene is a first round draft candidate. However, his impeccable right arm has vaulted him into top-3 consideration as a starting pitcher.

Greene’s fastball sits 95-99 mph, regularly touching 100+ without visible effort. Per John Sickels of Minor League Ball, he also has a plus curveball with good command, given his level of experience. With refinement in the minor leagues, his changeup should improve to MLB average and possibly better than that. With two pitches already plus, another that could very well be plus, and possibly more velocity as he adds muscle to his frame, the athletic Greene easily has the highest upside of any prospect in this upcoming draft yet also one of the highest floors. The combination of Greene’s work ethic, makeup, intangibles, and athleticism increase the likelihood of him reaching his potential as a top-of-the-rotation arm.

Scouting grades, per MLB Pipeline

Fastball: 70 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 60

Greene has shut down starting in games for this season in an effort to prevent unnecessary injury, though he has continued playing shortstop and throwing bullpens to stay in shape.

Chance of being there at 10th overall?

Very, very low. Barring unforeseen injury or ginormous brain farts by nine front offices, Greene will be long gone. The lowest he is projected to go is 3rd overall to the Padres.