Braxton Ashcraft

An immensely athletic pitcher, Ashcraft also plays football at Robinson (Texas) High as a wide receiver and had a record-setting junior campaign, where he caught 204 passes for 2,090 yards and 37 touchdowns--including a seven-touchdown game in Robinson's season opener. His athleticism translates to the mound as well, where Ashcraft throws from a three-quarter slot with a loose arm, feel to spin a breaking ball and physical upside. Ashcraft didn''t have eye-opening velocity during the showcase circuit, and scouts have said his velocity has been up and down this spring, but he has shown the ability to spot the pitch to both sides with cutting and running action. Widely seen as a pro pitching prospect, some scouts have wondered what Ashcraft would look like with a bat in his hands, as he's shown impressive power and can glide around the baseball field as a runner. Still, the upside he has on the mound is too much to ignore, and if he takes a jump with his stuff at some point--and he has the arm speed, athleticism and frame to do so--he could be a steal in the draft. He is expected to be a tough sign as a Baylor commit.