• Full name Preston J. Paramore
  • Born 10/30/1986 in Mcallen, TX
  • Profile Ht.: 6'2" / Wt.: 195 / Bats: R / Throws: R
  • School Arizona State
  • Drafted in the 3rd round (90th overall) by the Oakland Athletics in 2008 (signed for $430,000).
    View Draft Report
    Paramore was highly regarded coming out of high school but turned down the Mets, who drafted him in the 22nd round in 2005. He became an almost instant starter at Arizona State, where he spent most of his first two seasons sharing time with Kiel Roling as the catcher. Paramore shouldered more of the load in 2008 and earns praise from scouts for his ability to lead a pitching staff, as a quiet receiver and for blocking balls in the dirt. He has good hands but could improve his footwork on his throws. Paramore's arm once rated as above-average, but he's more fringe-average this spring, leaving scouts wondering about his arm's health. Offensively, he has a patient approach with a discerning eye, putting him in frequent hitter's counts, and he should draw his share of walks as a pro. He has some strength but lacks the bat speed to hit for more than fringe-average power. He struggled with wood last summer, going 7-for-63 (.111) for Team USA. Some scouts see many of Jason Varitek's traits in Paramore, though not Varitek's offensive upside. His polish and defensive ability could still get him drafted in the first three rounds.

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