Grayson Byrd

The son of former major leaguer Paul Byrd, Grayson is expected to follow in his father's (and mother's) footsteps and attend Louisiana State. Paul became a fourth-round pick out of LSU in 1991 before a 14-year big league career. Grayson has a long, lean build at 6-foot-3, 180 pounds, offering athleticism and projection. His top present tool is his plus speed. Currently a shortstop, he has been bothered by a shoulder injury this spring and likely will wind up at second base as a professional, throwing from a lower arm slot, though some scouts say third base is his best fit. He has natural feel for the game, and a feel to hit with a lefthanded stroke geared toward contact up the middle and to the opposite field. Additional strength could improve his gap power. Byrd, who will be 17 on draft day, is considered an extremely tough sign away from LSU, where he could be a contributor as a freshman.