OF Clayton Keyes, 15th round (442nd overall) - Arizona Diamondbacks
Photo Credit: Baseball Canada
With their 15th round pick (442nd overall), the Arizona Diamondbacks selected outfielder Clayton Keyes.
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
Hometown: Calgary, Alta.
Height/Weight: 6' 1", 215 pounds
College Commitment: Central Arizona College
Teams: Okotoks Dawgs, Canadian Junior National Team
Previous Teams: DBacks Langley Blaze, Pony Express, Kansas City Royals Scout Team
Coaches: Allen Cox, Val Helldobler, Jeff Duda, Doug Mathieson, Jamie Bodaly, Greg Hamilton
Twitter Handle: @claytonkeyes02
Slot Money: N/A
Previously Drafted: Selected by Toronto Blue Jays in 17th round in 2016. He did not sign.
Scout: Doug Mathieson
Scouting Reports:
Perfect Game
Keyes was eligible for the 2016 draft and was selected in the 17th round by the Toronto Blue Jays. He originally committed to play at Central Arizona Junior College but decided to return to Canada for the fifth year of high school that is an optional part of the Canadian educational system. As Keyes didn’t turn 18 years old until this January, his age fits in exactly with a 2017 prospect anyway.
Keyes' biggest tool is his right-handed power potential. He has a thick and extra strong football upper body with a long and loose swing that generates very good bat speed. He’s also a near-plus runner underway and has solid arm strength in the outfield.
Baseball America (2016)
Keyes is 17 and could attend a another year of high school in Canada, or Central Arizona JC, or join the rebuilding program at Washington State. His youth and present strength make him an attractive pro prospect, as he runs well for a 5-foot-11, 210-pounder. The average runner and right-handed hitter plays center field for Canada’s junior-national team and has shown power potential, even to the opposite field, and some bat speed. He’s raw offensively and swings-and-misses a lot against quality pitching.
What they are saying:
"Best athlete in the country [Canada] ... problem is he does not show it every day. Takes too many pitches." - National League scout.
"Made the right decision by not signing a year ago ... Has basically been a pro since March 16 - facing pro pitching in Arizona and Florida ... Had zero problem with pitch recognition." - Veteran scout.
More information from Canadian Baseball Network
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