Chicago Cubs: Five realistic MLB draft day targets

Chicago Cubs: A unique profile

Another top ten talent, UCLA outfielder Garrett Mitchell brings a certain mystique to the draft process for teams. As a former star at Orange Lutheran, Mitchell possessed top talent. Unfortunately, after a tough final year, he fell into the middle rounds of the MLB draft and chose instead to fulfill his commitment to UCLA to become a Bruin.

Mitchell played a considerable amount during his freshman season at UCLA. He slashed .280/.337/.331 over 44 games. Despite somewhat of a down freshman season, Mitchell rebounded elegantly in his second year. The big left-handed hitter slashed .349/.418/.566 with 12 triples and 18 stolen bases.

Entering into this year, Mitchell was expected to be an offensive catalyst for the blue and gold. His season was cut short after only 15 games because of the novel coronavirus. However, Mitchell had amassed a .355/.425/.484 line with a .909 OPS and six doubles. He had only struck out three times over 62 at-bats.

Given an elite speed rating paired with above-average defense, Mitchell is expected to contend for a centerfield spot wherever he lands next week. He has been deemed to have a “rocket” arm, which would bode well for any outfield in the majors. Mitchell is one who can be tricky to mark in terms of his scouting reports and pure talent. However, if Mitchell is still on the board at 16, Theo Epstein and the front office would be foolish to pass him over.