Jeremy Hermida

Hermida was the biggest mover in the last few weeks leading up to the draft, coming out of nowhere to become a candidate for the second overall pick to the Devil Rays, and almost certainly one of the first 12 picks. He was on follow lists entering the season, so he wasn't a complete unknown like 2001 sensation Colt Griffin. Nevertheless, his ascent has been startling. Some scouts think he's the best high school hitter since Eric Chavez, and one scouting director gives Hermida a perfect 80 grade (on the 20-80 scale) for his bat. He has a smooth approach, makes consistent, hard contact and has good power potential--and as a bonus, he hits lefthanded. A natural recruit for Clemson, because his sister goes there and he played with coach Jack Leggett's son in the prestigious East Cobb program, Hermida almost certainly won't attend college at this point. He's not a one-dimensional player, either. He's a plus runner with a slightly above-average arm who projects as a pro right fielder. Hermida has put on 20 pounds in the last year while improving as much as anyone in the nation.