MLB Draft 2017 – Notable Rox

Ryan Vilade, a shortstop from Stillwater, Okla., talks with reporters after the Colorado Rockies and Vilade, the team's first overall selection of the 2017 First-Year Player Draft, agreed to contract terms in Coors Field Wednesday, June 21, 2017, in Denver. Vilade, a native of Frisco, Texas, was selected with the 48th overall pick of the draft. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Greetings Prospects1500 readers! The 2017 MLB Draft for the Colorado Rockies was a little bit less exciting without that 1st round draft pick lost to the Texas Rangers as compensation for signing Ian Desmond. However, below you’ll see some notable picks that I think could have some impact for fantasy dynasty leaguers down the road.

Ryan Vilade – 2nd Round, Stillwater High School, Oklahoma

Vilade grew up around the game as his father was a coach and is currently on the staff at Oklahoma State University (Ryan’s prior commitment). Thanks to this upbringing (and the eye test),  it is evident that he has a high baseball IQ, a very advanced plate approach, and a swing that generates significant raw power. He will most likely show just average athleticism down the road but expect him to rip through the lower minors (similar to Colton Welker).

Chad Spanberger – 6th Round, University of Arkansas

Remember the Thunder and Lightning days back in the 80s with Will Clark and Rafael Palmeiro? Spanberger definitely flashed a lot of thunder during his career for the Razorbacks in Fayetteville. 2017 SEC tournament MVP? Check. This is the kind of player that can get hot and put a team on his back. If he is able to lay off pitches out of the zone and show a solid plate approach – his massive raw power could yield a Lucas Duda type player. He is already very fun to watch (as you will see in the video attached to his name)…the question remains will a big body first baseman play enough defense and make enough contact to reach The Show?

Joey Bartosic – 19th Round, George Mason University

Hit tool, speed, athleticism, hit tool, Cape Cod League performer the summer after his junior year (2nd in SB)…all things that I enjoy. He has already stolen 7 bags and only 1 caught stealing in 6 games while only getting on base 8 times. He is certainly a longshot but in deep dynasty fantasy baseball you take chances on the guys that have a standout skill that they can exploit and contribute in a few rotisserie categories. Check out that track speed in the video attached to his name – he takes the baton at 1:38 and RIPS!

Of course there are plenty of other players who were drafted by the Rockies this past month.  If there’s anyone you’d like to ask me about, or if you have comments about any other prospect, feel free to drop me a line below or hit me up on Twitter at @GoldyHarpTrout.

Featured image of Ryan Vilade – courtesy denverpost.com & David Zalubowski/Associated Press.

Chris Williamson is the Rockies correspondent here at Prospects1500. He lives in Denver and is a member of The Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR). Being a member of SABR has given him the opportunity to attend some great events and meet some Rockies insiders. Chris is also a diehard dynasty fantasy baseball participant. He is currently in 2 dynasty leagues, one with 30 minor league roster spots, and one with 40 minor league roster spots. Check out more from Chris on his new website: makeprospectsgreatagain.com. GO ROX!




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