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.

2B Kolbrin Vitek 6’3” 195 lbs  Bats: R  Throws: R

Vitek is a junior at Ball State University and is considered one of the best college hitters in the draft.  He’s hitting .361/.445/.691 with 20 doubles, 3 triples, 17 home runs, 68 RBI’s, and 16 stolen bases in 233 AB’s.  Vitek has a good approach at the plate, and projects as an above average hitter with above average power potential.  He also has above average speed under way.

The big question with Vitek is what position he will play at the major league level.  Vitek and his low 90’s fastball have been in the Ball State rotation since his freshman year.  He played third base last year, and moved to second base this year.  Some scouts think he will ultimately end up in the outfield because he lacks the hands and actions of an infielder.  He may have enough speed to play center field and could still be an above average corner outfielder if he reaches his power potential. 

Vitek has star potential if he can stay at second base, but he will probably end up in right field if the Padres pick him with the 9^th overall pick.  His bat, speed, and arm could make him an above average offensive and defensive right fielder at the major league level.  The Padres have apparently shown interest in Vitek and he will more than likely be available to them at #9.

MLB Comparison:  Hunter Pence