Todd Van Poppel

In his first seven outings this season, Van Poppel registered a 6-1, 0.00 record. He lost 1-0 to Richland High on an unearned run, the only run he’d allow all year. Twice he struck out 16 in seven-inning games. Should the Atlanta Braves opt for Van Poppel, he would become only the second high school pitcher selected first overall in the draft’s 26-year history. Another Texan, lefthander David Clyde (1973), remains the only pitcher previously picked No. 1. Scouts say Van Poppel, rated the top high school prospect at the start of the season, is in a class by himself among pitchers. He has been clocked as high as 95 mph this spring, and his curveball and control have shown marked improvement over the last year. Van Poppel leads an unusually talented group of Texas high school pitchers. It is projected that as many as three will go in the first round.