Drafted in the 2nd round (66th overall) by the Miami Marlins in 2009 (signed for $572,500).
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Berglund was little known until a local all-star game last December, when he enjoyed a breakout performance and rocketed up draft boards. Berglund is a Swedish citizen who has picked up the American national pastime. His fastball sits in the 90-92 mph range, and his secondary pitches well developed for a prep pitcher. His slider has the makings of a plus pitch, but his best current offering is his changeup, which shows both deception and late drop. Berglund's velocity takes tails off as he progresses through a game, slipping down to 86-87 mph by the third or fourth inning, and he leans too much on his fastball, two problems that should be solved by simple maturity and development. Berglund's projectable 6-foot-4 build, with his three legitimate pitches, make him attractive enough that he probably won't follow through on his commitment to Loyola Marymount.
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Barely known, even in prospect-rich Southern California, Berglund saw his profile explode after a strong showing at a local all-star game last winter. He wound up signing late for $572,500 out of the second round, spurning a scholarship to nearby Loyola Marymount. The first Swedish citizen ever drafted, he's fairly Americanized and flashes a dry wit. If he reaches the majors, he'll be the first Swede to do so since Eric Erickson in 1922. Like many high school pitchers, Berglund saw his velocity dip when he first entered pro ball. He worked at 87-89 mph and touched 90 after signing, down from 90-92 mph. Tall and lanky with a lean, projectable frame, he needs to add muscle but his work ethic and makeup are sound. His mechanics are solid and the Marlins saw no reason to tinker with him at their season-end minicamp. In-game durability remains a concern as his fastball often lost power by the middle innings during his prep career. Berglund's short slider will eventually be an out pitch, but for now he relies more heavily on his changeup. He figures to open his first full pro season in low Class A.
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