KC Royals: Seven options for second overall pick in 2019 MLB Draft

Adley Rutschman, Catcher

Oregon State

Adley Rutschman led Oregon State to eternal glory last season as the Beavers won the College World Series. In 2018, Rutschman, who had been drafted in the 40th round by the Mariners in 2016, slashed .408/.505/.628 as his OPS nearly doubled from his freshman season. He collected 102 hits, 22 of which went for doubles and nine that were home runs, as he drove in 83 runs while crossing the plate 56 times himself.

And somehow, he’s playing even better this season. Currently, the switch-hitting catcher is hitting .423 while reaching base at a .580 clip with a slugging percentage at .825. That’s good for an outstanding 1.405 OPS. While his doubles have fallen this year, that’s because those balls are more apt to go over the fence, as he’s already set a career-high in home runs with 11. He’s walked almost twice as many times as he’s struck out.

MLB.com’s number one prospect, Rutschman should be able to stay behind the plate, too. From 20-80: “Behind the dish (he) moves well, displaying solid side-to-side movement and athletic actions. He has soft, strong hands that allow him to excel at presentation, sticking the corners and the low strike with impressive regularity.”

Rutschman is a year older than current Royals catching prospect MJ Melendez, ranked as the team’s fifth overall prospect by MLB.com. Melendez’ OPS was an eye-opening .814 last season in Lexington, but so were his 143 strikeouts.

Would the Royals select Rutschman with the second pick given Melendez’ presence? Tough question to answer, but a question the Royals would no doubt enjoy solving.