Detroit Tigers: 2019 MLB Draft Brings Uncertainty For The Tigers Pick

The Detroit Tigers possess the fifth pick, and CJ Abrams is considered a top pick out of high school. He may not be there when it comes time for the Tigers to pick, but if he is, he may be worth the wait.

CJ Abrams is a 6’2″, 182-pound shortstop/middle-infielder out of Blessed Trinity Catholic High School out of Georgia. He has plenty of interest as such a top pick because of his advanced skill set. Abrams is committed to playing baseball at the University of Alabama next season, providing he does not turn professional after he gets selected.

Perfect Game USA has Abrams down as an outstanding runner, left-handed hitter with a “smooth and fluid swing,” long-athletic build who fields well. Read more about his scouting report on his Perfect Game USA profile, here.

During his senior season with Blessed Trinity Catholic, Abrams managed a .410/.679/.459 line with 27 RBI and 33 stolen bases. Abrams has been quite impressive throughout his four-year high school career, posting a .418 career high school batting average with 100 RBI and 100 stolen bases during his four years. One of Abrams most impressive statistics that cannot be seen merely off of his stolen bases is that he can run from home to first on a sub-4.0 second consistent basis.

The Tigers have plenty of prospects in the minors including infielders and outfielders, and as we all know, plenty of pitchers, but Abrams wouldn’t be a bad investment. Abrams could be almost like a Dee Gordon type of player whose speed will carry him through the farm system, and the addition of some pop in his bat will only farewell for his development.

Exploring Abrams if he is still on the draft board at selection five, would not be the worst thing for the Detroit Tigers future even though it may take a bit more time to develop him, rather than someone like Bleday or Vaughn.