Astros select OF George Springer with 1st round pick

The Houston Astros decided to not grab one of the starting pitchers and go with outfielder George Springer from UConn with their first pick. However, this doesn’t mean Astro fans should be disappointed as the Astros got one of the top prospects in this year’s draft. MLB.com has a scouting report that says he is a five tool player and finding one in the college ranks is a rarity.

Springer is a center fielder and will most likely stay there through the minor leagues as he has above average range to go along with a strong arm. If there is a weakness with this player it is that he does have some holes in his swing but has a quick bat and has some great raw power. This season for UConn he hit 12 home runs and 76 RBI along with 31 stolen bases. One thing that should excite Astros fans is that the online telecast of the Draft compared Springer to another Houston Astro, Hunter Pence.

All the commentators raved about this player and Peter Gammons said he spent time with Springer and he was a very likable kid with great character. I was hoping the Astros would select Taylor Jungmann  but I can’t complain about Springer and think the new ownership made a great first pick.