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With their fourth-round pick, the # 128 overall pick, the Twins ultimately picked a player who seemingly matches their previous styles of defensive corner, varsity hittering love.
Encarnacion-Strand had 33 home runs in two college seasons in Arizona before spending last spring in Stillwater, OK, playing third baseman for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. There he won the Big 12 Conference Newcomer of the Year honors with a .361 / .442 / .661, 15 home run campaign.
He’s clearly demonstrated his ability to strike for power against top amateur competition, but he’s not without question marks (as you would expect at this point in the draft). This excerpt from MLB.com’s scouting reports (where he was ranked # 208) points to some concerns about the mechanics of his swing that cause him to sway and miss against speed and spin, and the absence of a clear defensive house:
Despite all the damage Encarnacion-Strand has done to the plate, the scouts don’t like his right-handed swing. It has an unconventional load and an uphill bat path that makes it vulnerable to high speed and quality bursting bullets. His supporters believe a professional team could help him improve his shot and get 25 homers a year if he also softens an aggressive approach. There are also questions about the defensive home of Encarnacion-Strand. He’s got the strong hands and arm to stay at third base, but he’s a well below average runner with limited reach. His only alternative would be first base unless a club wants to try to turn him into a receiver.
Despite those concerns, Encarnacion-Strand does stand a chance and appear to fit one of the Twins’ favorite profiles for college hitters.
Three years ago, after losing a scholarship to the Oregon State College Baseball Baseball because of poor grades, his outlook didn’t look as rosy as it does today. The story of Encarnacion-Strand was recounted earlier this year in a profile of Oklahoman and Encarnacion-Strand deserves credit for the work he did to put himself in position to secure that opportunity with the Twins (he was also previously a Seattle 34th round pick, but did not sign).
Oklahoma State coaching staff rave over Encarnacion-Strand in the room above. For what it’s worth, this coaching staff also includes two former major league hitters – Matt Holliday and Robin Ventura. The Twins’ new draft pick certainly impressed them with his work ethic and strength.
In terms of tools, MLB.com gave above average ratings for its power (50) and arm strength (55), while rating its punching tool and fielding abilities just below. of the mean (45).
Overall, he has things to work with and the Twins will try to make the adjustments to him to be successful, but he comes from a track record of success.
Good luck to Christian with the twins!
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