Chicago Cubs: Delving into the 2019 MLB Amateur Player Draft

Chicago Cubs: A big, powerful high school standout

In 2017, as a junior in high school, Brett Baty was named the Gatorade High School Player of the Year. He is 19 years old. However, his production speaks volume for his age as his large 210-pound frame can drive the ball hard off the bat with ease.

Baty stands firm at the plate, upright and comes through the ball quickly and incredibly smooth. The smoothness of his swing helps to generate the power, and the ball seems to jump right off the bat. Baty’s stance is reminiscent of Curtis Granderson, as he seems to generate most of that power at a lower point of gravity, giving a nice added pop to the swing.

According to Perfect Game, Baty posted a 97th-percentile max acceleration swing, as well as an 87th-percentile max barrel speed. Baty’s top exit velocity came in at a whopping 101 mph, good for 99th-percentile for his class.  His bat is indeed his main weapon. However, he does possess nice arm strength. His smooth smooth glove is certainly playable at the next level.

Baty is someone to keep an eye on next summer as the draft approaches. He currently has a verbal commitment to the University of Texas, but he is another name that, if he is available and willing to forgo his collegiate commitment, the Cubs should look into targeting.