2014 MLB Draft: Dodgers Select Grant Holmes With First Round Pick
However, from 2009-2013, they took just one high school hurler in the first round (Zach Lee in 2010). Now, with the 22nd overall pick in 2014, they returned to their past with the selection of high school right-hander Grant Holmes.
Holmes was regarded as one of the top pitchers in the draft by several publications. Baseball America ranked him as the 16th best prospect in the draft, ESPN ranked Holmes No. 6 and MLB.com ranked him No. 11. By all accounts, the Dodgers got quite a steal with their most recent first rounder.
Holmes features a plus fastball that sits in the low to mid 90s and has reportedly touched as high as 100 MPH. Along with the velocity, he has good command of the pitch. His curveball was rated by MLB.com as the best high school breaking ball in the draft and is considered a true power curve in the low 80s that will baffle hitters as he moves up the ladder.
Holmes also throws a changeup that could turn into a plus pitch and that would give him three above average offerings. The right-hander is a sturdy build at 6’2 and 190 lbs.
With his power stuff and command, Holmes could move fairly quickly through the low minors. He’ll overpower hitters with his one-two punch and only really needs to stay healthy and polish his changeup.
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