Kevin Newman

Undrafted after his high school career in Poway, Calif., Newman became the first two-time Cape Cod League batting champ last summer. A strong junior season catapulted Newman into a certain first-round selection, and his combination of hitting ability and middle-of-the-diamond profile could put him in the first 10 selections. Newman is a pure hitter who controls the strike zone, walking more than he strikes out, but doesn't yet hit for a lot of power. Scouts are convinced the bat will play in the pro game, primarily because his quick hands work so well that he's able to start the hands so far forward. He may add more gap power as he matures but his college track record is that of a singles hitter, with two career homers (one Cape, one with Arizona). He struggled in Pacific-12 Conference play when he was pitched hard inside, batting just .279/.328/.378 heading into the final two weeks of conference play. Scouts are mixed on his shortstop defense and even arm strength, with some grading it average and others above-average. He's not flashy but has good instincts that maximize his arm, range and footwork. He also maximizes his average to above-average speed, and Newman consistently runs and plays hard. He's earned comparisons from players from Adam Kennedy for those who see him moving to second to Chris Gomez and, on the high end, Alan Trammell.