With the 4th overall pick overall pick in the 2018 MLB draft, the Chicago White Sox have selected Nick Madrigal a second baseman out of Oregon State University.
Madrigal stands at an astounding 5-foot-7 and can play both shortstop and second base. Drawing many comps to Dustin Pedroia and Jose Altuve. He has an advanced approach at the plate. He is considered to be the best overall hitter in the draft. His glove is nothing to balk at either with scouts saying Madrigal can win a few Gold Glove awards at the next level.
Madrigal has been a starter all 3 years at Oregon State and each year better than the last. A .333 BA in his freshman year to a .380 BA last year and this year he holds a .406 BA. He’s not much of a power guy, only hitting 8 home runs over his 3 seasons but the kid knows how to get on base. In his 140 games in college he has walked (55) more times than he has struck out (34). And his instincts on the basepaths have lead him to swipe 33 bags.
I love Nick Madrigal. Dude's a winner. pic.twitter.com/ByYbkPmrjY
— Michael Lananna (@mlananna) June 4, 2018
Madrigal was taken in the 17th round in the 2015 MLB draft by the Cleveland Indians. He opted to not sign and honor his commitment to Oregon State.
Madrigal will be another top 100 prospect added to the long list of guys in the White Sox farm. Even though the system is already loaded with talent Madrigal will enter the White sox system as one of the top 3 or 4 guys right behind Eloy Jimenez and Michael Kopech.