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Royals select high school right-hander Nolan Watson with the 33rd pick overall

Kelvin Kuo / US PRESSWIRE

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The Kansas City Royals took their second high school pitcher of the first round, taking Vanderbilt commit Nolan Watson with the 33rd pick in the 2015 MLB Draft.

Watson, 18, is compensation for right-hander James Shields, who declined the Royals' $15.3-million qualifying offer to sign with the San Diego Padres this past winter.

The Royals used their 21st pick on prep right-hander Ashe Russell.

Bio

Position: RHP
School: Lawrence North HS
Height/Weight: 6-2, 200 pounds
Age: 18
Bats: Right
Throws: Right

Overview

Watson's fastball sits in the 92-95 mph range, and is complemented by a solid slider, improving curveball, and changeup. Scouts rave over Watson's repeatable delivery and effortless release, which enables the 6-foot-2 right-hander to pound the zone for consistent strikes. There are concerns, however, regarding Watson's signability given his desire to pitch for collegiate powerhouse Vanderbilt.

Highlights

(Courtesy: MLB.com)

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