Bobby Hill

The White Sox had until a week before the draft to sign their second-round pick from last year. Those chances appeared slim as Hill and agent Scott Boras have held to their desire for a bonus substantially above Hill's slot in the draft. Hill spent three years at Miami but decided to forgo his senior year and play with the independent Newark Bears to remain eligible for the draft. He was hitting .247-2-8 with nine stolen bases through 20 games. There have been conflicting reports on his progress, but he is still seen as an excellent runner with offensive potential as a leadoff hitter. His ability to make the long throw from the hole at shortstop will determine whether he stays there or moves to second. Twice before--Ariel Prieto (Western League) with the Athletics in 1995 and J.D. Drew (Northern) with the Cardinals in 1998--have players in independent leagues been picked in the first round.