David Banuelos

Banuelos took over as Long Beach State's starting catcher midway through his sophomore season and was so impressive that he was named first team all-conference for that half-year. Banuelos is the classic quarterback behind the plate, drawing raves for his toughness and leadership ability. Physically, his best tool is his arm. He records consistent 1.89-1.92 second pop times, which grades out as plus, and threw out over 60 percent of baserunners in his two seasons as a starter. A catcher since he was 5-years-old, Banuelos possesses soft hands in receiving, knows how to read swings and blocks well, making him an above-average-to-plus defender. Offensively Banuelos has a patient, mature approach and excellent barrel control that allows him to get on base and make solid contact with near-average power potential. Banuelos draws frequent comparisons to Rene Rivera and Jose Molina. That level of defensive excellence will get his name called, likely early on the draft's second day.