Justin Twine

Twine is the best athlete in the state of Texas this year and offers an intriguing package of tools. An explosive runner, he qualified for the state track championships in the 100 and 400 meters, after setting the gridiron ablaze in the fall. As a running quarterback, Twine rushed for more than 500 yards in a game, the third-highest single-game total in Texas history. He combined for more than 4,000 all-purpose yards and 94 touchdowns in his last two seasons and received scholarships offers from several Big 12 schools before committing to Texas Christian for baseball. At a powerful 5-foot-11, 205 pounds, Twine is built like a running back and has drawn physical comparisons to Howie Kendrick. A team drafting Twine is betting on his tools because he has been tough to gauge this spring against subpar competition. He is at least 65 runner on the 20-80 scouting scale and has posted home-to-first times close to four seconds flat. He has above-average bat speed and a quick stroke, but his bat needs development and there are questions about his ability to hit secondary stuff. He has a track record of swinging and missing on the showcase circuit. His strength and bat speed could give him average power, though his present power is mostly to the gaps. A high school shortstop, Twine's hands and actions will likely push him off the position. He has an average arm and could move to second base or center field.