The 2010 first-year player draft is fast approaching.  Friarhood will be profiling some players that may be available to the Padres when they pick ninth overall.

Zach Cox -   3B/2B

6-0, 215 lbs   Arkansas    Bats L  Throws  R

Zach is a draft eligible sophmore who was drafted in 2007 as a high schooler in the 20^th round by the Dodgers.

Widely regarded as the best pure hitter in the draft among the college players. He has a compact swing and exceptional bat speed. He hits equally well to all fields and has the ability to hit for power as well. His primary position in college was third base but has recently been switched to second base and has done well. There does seems to be a discussion among scouts about which of those positions will suit him best in the majors.

Although his foot speed is considered below average,  he does not clog the bases.

He has a strong, accurate arm in the infield with average range in both positions. Also a relief pitcher in college,  he possesses a low 90’s fastball.

A recent rib cage injury may have affected his draft position but he is expected to go in the first  10 picks of the first round. Scouts feel Zach will advance quickly thru the minor leagues as he has been successful in the past hitting with a wood bad. Last summer, in the Cape Cod league, Cox hit .344. Thru mid-May of this college season his line is .446/.532/.631.

MLB Comparison: Ken Caminiti