Byron Buxton was selected by the Minnesota Twins with the second overall pick in the 2012 MLB Draft on Monday night. It wasn't surprising considering the majority of the mock drafts had the team and player linked, but there was quite a bit of speculation it wouldn't end up like this when the Houston Astros opted for Carlos Correa instead of Mark Appel.
The Twins stuck to their guns, however and went with the high school phenom from Georgia. It's difficult to project exactly when and what kind of impact he'll have in the majors, but SB Nation's John Sickels seems to think he'll be a solid player judging by his scouting report on Minnesota's newest prospect.
Byron Buxton, OF, Appling County HS, Baxley, GA: Listed at 6-1, 175, Buxton is a spectacular athlete with blazing speed and an outstanding throwing arm. Opinions differ about his bat; he's strong enough to hit for considerable power, but his swing is still a work in progress and his plate discipline needs improvement. He is a prototype high-risk/high-reward player who could develop into a superstar, a bust, or anything in between. Buxton is committed to the University of Georgia.
The Twins need pitching in the system, but this multi-tooled talent was too much to pass up. He will need considerable development time, particularly with the bat, but he has the physical ability to be an All-Star.
It should be fun watching him come up, along with fellow top prospect Miguel Sano, through the minors. Hopefully Minnesota is able to add a few more potential-laden players with their other two picks on Monday night.
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