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Athletics select Florida shortstop Richie Martin with the 20th pick overall

Brace Hemmelgarn / USA TODAY Sports

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The Oakland Athletics have selected Florida shortstop Richie Martin with the 20th pick in the 2015 MLB Draft.

From an infielding standpoint, there's not much else to ask from Martin. But from a hitting perspective, there are a few question marks.

Make no mistake, the kid can hit. But given his short, compact swing, there are questions as to whether his approach limits his power potential.

That wouldn't be such a terrible thing, but given his position, some power at the plate is required. With that, the club will need to develop him in the minors a little more.

Bio

Position: SS
School: Florida
Height/Weight: 6', 185 pounds
Age: 20
Bats: Right; Throws: Right

Stats

AB AVG R HR RBI SB
231 .294 57 4 31 20

Overview

Martin burst onto the scouting radar last summer when he slashed .364/.432/.469 in the Cape Cod League and finished first in hits and runs scored. He has above average speed and is a true shortstop, which will intrigue teams looking to groom a franchise player at the position.

Some scouts are concerned about his very short and direct swing, which they say limits his power potential. Martin's struggles with inside pitches are also well documented. Regardless, his range and speed make up for his shortfalls at the plate, making him a solid first-round prospect.

Highlights

(Courtesy: MLB.com)

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